Online safety for young children (6-10)

It’s a good idea to talk to any older children about what they do online and what they show to younger children. Encourage them to be responsible and help keep their younger siblings safe.

Encourage them to use their tech devices in a communal area like the lounge or kitchen so you can keep an eye on how they’re using the internet and also share in their enjoyment.

Install parental controls on your home broadband and any internet-enabled devices to manage internet safety. Set up a user account for your child on the main device they use and make sure other accounts in the household are password-protected so that younger children can’t access them by accident.

The best way to find out what your child is doing online is to talk with them about what they do and what sites they like to visit. Ask them to show you or play online games together to learn about the platforms and teach them good e-safety habits.

Be clear what your child can and can’t do online – where they can use the internet, how much time they can spend online, the sites they can visit and the type of information they can share. Agree with your child when they can have a mobile phone or tablet.

Use safe search engines such as Swiggle or Kids-search. You can save time by adding these to your ‘Favourites’. Safe search settings can also be activated on Google and other search engines, as well as YouTube.

The age ratings that come with games, apps, films and social networks are a good guide to whether they’re suitable for your child. For example, the minimum age limit is 13 for several social media sites, including TikTok and Instagram. However, there are some social media platforms made for children which they can use safely.

Be aware that if your child is accessing the internet using public WiFi they may not have safety features active. Some providers are part of family friendly WiFi schemes with filters to block inappropriate content. Look out for friendly WiFi symbols like RDI Friendly WiFi symbols when you’re out and about.

Learn about your pre-teen’s favourite video games, platforms and online interests by joining them. Remember, their online life is their real life — so take an interest. Give them the opportunity to show you some of their favourite things.