# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The digital landscape has transformed in the last decade and, currently, nine in ten children will own a smartphone by the age of eleven. The long-term impact on children's mental health and development isn't fully understood, but current research suggests that the messages they receive during these formative years can shape their beliefs about themselves and the world around them - sometimes adversely affecting their mental health.

Smartphones and social media have become unavoidable realities and practicalities of daily life for most of us. New technology is continually evolving, and as children grow up, we need to teach them how to navigate the internet safely and critically, recognise when something isn't right, and feel confident approaching someone for help when they need it.

The tricky questions are how and when to introduce them to the smartphone and the world of social media.
Many psychologists, headteachers and GPs are recommending these two basic rules:

No smartphones until the age of 14

No social media until the age of 16

This is because children and young people are vulnerable. Here are some of the common risks to children and young people online:

An increased sense of loneliness or low self-worth due to comparisons with others and exposure to unrealistic expectations for body image or lifestyle.

Access to strangers through gaming platforms, apps and social media which may make children vulnerable to grooming or manipulation.

Violent, pornographic or other potentially inappropriate and harmful content which can influence unhealthy or dangerous modelling for relationships.

Behavioural addiction which distracts from learning and hobbies, creates a dependency on external validation, and interrupts sleep.

Misinformation and false news which influence racist, misogynistic or other harmful beliefs and potentially harmful behaviour.

Cyberbullying from strangers or peers at school which can go unseen and can result in dangerous situations.

The Dangers of Algorithms - Better Internet for Kids EU:

"As algorithms are used as part of persuasive design techniques, the frequent recommendation of relevant content can encourage young people to spend longer on social media or video-sharing platforms than they wish. The 'just one more...' effect can be very persuasive!"

"As algorithms will often filter content based on a user's behaviour and interests (for instance, what they watch most frequently, words that they search for), there is a risk that, if a young person searches for harmful content that is harmful, the algorithm mistakenly believes that this is content they want to see and provide more of it in the future. Even searches for appropriate content can sometimes stray into the realms of upsetting or inappropriate, particularly if the algorithms decide that a user should see something that produces a stronger emotional response (such as content that contains hate or animal cruelty). In some cases, young people have been exposed to content that can harm them, such as content about self-harm, eating disorders and dangerous exercise/diet regimes."
Should I get my child a phone? If so, what are my options?
There is growing pressure from children to own the latest smartphone, and the prevailing argument is that children will be socially isolated without one.

Many parents and carers buy their child a mobile phone just before they transition to secondary school. There is a lot of pressure that this should be a smartphone, and it may feel like there aren't any other available options, but you do have choices.

There are many advantages of delaying when children have unlimited access to a smartphone. It allows your child to develop their inter-relational skills, maturity and self-esteem before the onslaught of social media.
Basic Phones
More and more schools are now insisting that children do not bring smartphones into school. One easy solution, therefore, is to start your child with a basic phone (a phone with no internet access).

If your child needs a phone to text and call you and their friends, this is the simplest solution. The main advantage is that without your consent, children can't download apps, access harmful content online or Snapchat friends in the middle of the night. You are saving yourself endless "discussions" about which apps they can/ can't have and the disappointment of finding out they have downloaded them anyway without your consent. It may not be the most popular choice and is probably more suitable for younger adolescents, but the longer you can keep your child smartphone-free, the easier it will be for them to develop their skills of resilience, inter-personal skills - paving the way for being able to handle a smartphone well when the time comes.
Smartphones
If you do decide to give your child a smartphone earlier, how do you keep them as safe as possible? And how can you, as parents and carers, successfully help your child to thrive in the digital age? Where does the correct balance lie between giving your child freedom on the internet and putting controls in place to keep them safe on social media?

However hard you try, it is really difficult to control and monitor what children get up to on their smartphones. This can become a source of family tension.

They can be a constant source of distraction and source of potential conflict over apps and time spent online. Children are very astute at bypassing parental controls, and the very apps they use have been designed to be highly addictive.

However, if you choose or have chosen to give your child a smartphone, we offer some tips and guidance for keeping your children safe.
Advice on apps and staying safe on social media
Whether your child has the latest iPhone or no phone at all (but some access to the internet through an iPad or computer), it is the apps we need to think most carefully about.

Some of the best brains in Silicon Valley have crafted these apps to increase their persuasive technology and keep young people hooked. Whether it is streaks on snap chat, likes on Facebook or autoplay on YouTube, these apps have been designed to be addictive.

Use Parent App Guides for quick tips on making these apps safer and less addictive for young people. https://www.papayaparents.com/solutions#anchor-link-Parentcontrolapps
Parental consent on apps
One way to try to delay the onslaught of social media is to, as a minimum, hold off until the minimum age of the app. However, the age limits are very lenient when considering the access to strangers, inappropriate content, and influencers that they bring right into your child's eye line.

If your child wants to download an app, we encourage you to spend time reading the guidelines to understand what access the app gives other people to them and what safety measures need to be put in place first. By changing privacy settings, you can considerably improve the safety of many apps.

However, this does not reduce their addictive lure and impact on well-being and self-esteem, although ensuring your child has time limits for social media apps may help with this.

Social media comes with dangers. It can be a portal for cyberbullying, online grooming, and access to inappropriate content.

Research is starting to show that social media may, in fact, increase loneliness. It also encourages young people to base their value on other people's opinions which can damage their ability to develop robust self-esteem.

However, it also how young people today communicate, and denying them access to it completely may seem a step too far for many parents and young people.

There may, however, be a sensible middle path that includes social media, just not too much of it! It's worth reading up and familiarising yourself with social media apps before agreeing to your child having them. Apps that appear harmless may give strangers access to your child's location and personal details, and although none of the social media sites are perfect, there are ways to make them safer. By changing the privacy settings and monitoring time spent on apps, it may be possible to find a healthy middle ground.
Top Tips on smartphone safety
In summary, if you choose a smartphone, things to consider include:

Waiting till app age limits/ holding off even longer

Setting time limits for social media

Using parental control apps to help prevent addiction and help your child learn to monitor their use carefully

Agreeing as a family to boundaries, e.g. no phones upstairs at night or the meal table and consequences if these are broken

Agreeing to open negotiations before an app is downloaded and that certain apps may come with boundaries, e.g. having social media set to PRIVATE MODE

Knowing your apps and how to make them more secure

Chatting with friends in the community- can you agree to similar boundaries?

Staying strong - being a parent isn't about being popular.

Quick guide to social media SNAP CHAT
Snapchat is the infamous messages service where your messages "snaps" disappear after 10 minutes. It has been known as a portal for bullying, grooming and sexting (the exchange of naked images) but is loved by teens as it's fun and in the moment.

However, many an unsuspecting teenager has been caught out by a snap saved on a screenshot or by a third party append then forwarded. This can be incredibly damaging for their wellbeing, especially if it is an explicit photo.

Consider limiting the TIME spent on Snapchat as is highly addictive due to its streaks feature

Snapchatters who see your messages can always potentially save them, whether by taking a screenshot or by using some other image-capture technology (a separate piece of software, or even simply by taking a photo of their screen with a second camera).

Check your PRIVACY settings are set to "friends only."

Make sure "Who Contact me" is set to my friends only

Set view my story to "friends only."

If you're in a GROUP chat with people you don't know, they will be able to see your messages and number unless you change the setting

Use GHOST mode to disable the GPS map (whereby other users can know your exact location)

Turn OFF quick add (a facility that suggests you as a friend according to people you already know but gives access to your details to a greater number of other people)

Learn about how long snaps are visible and who else can see them

INSTAGRAM
Instagram is a viral photo messaging app with young people. It allows you to post stories and videos, which in PUBLIC mode anyone can follow and comment on. It has been linked with low self-esteem in teenagers as they look to the approval of others on what they post. Many children have two Instagram accounts; one very highly manicured public account and one private one for closer friends.

Age 13 with parental consent.

Set time limits for how long children can spend on the app to reduce the risk of addiction and dependence. Reports so far have suggested that the GREATER the time spent on social media the BIGGER the problem. (see parental controls)

Use private mode as in public mode anyone can access your account

Block any followers you don't know or anyone who is making nasty/ inappropriate contents online

Add comment controls so you can weed out offensive or annoying comments

If you're on Facebook as well, check your app settings, so it doesn't automatically share between the two sites

Turn off activity status so people can't see whether you're online or not

To watch how to stay safe on Instagram: https://youtu.be/eZbr3-Vl9cE.

FACEBOOK
Facebook is a social networking site (although less so with today's younger generation who have moved onto other platforms). It allows you to create a page about yourself and post stories and photos to your friends. However, by default, your settings are PUBLIC, so anyone can follow or send you a friend request.

Minimum Age is 13 with parental consent

Set TIME LIMITS for how long children can spend on the app to reduce the risk of addiction

Change your setting to PRIVATE instead of public

Only allow friends-of-friends to send friend requests (instead of everyone)

Only allow friends to FOLLOW you (not PUBLIC)

Who can see future posts - change to friends (instead of everyone)

BLOCK anyone who is bullying you online or who is following you, but you don't know them

To watch a video with all the details on how you can make a Facebook account more private: https://youtu.be/6VyoouopcDY

For parental advice and more detail, go to: https://www.net-aware.org.uk/networks/facebook/

YOUTUBE
YouTube is a top-rated video sharing platform where you can both watch and upload videos. "Vloggers" have become famous with posts from makeup tutorials to travel advice. Children as young as ten have shared sensitive material about family loss etc. Anyone who innocently posts may be in the firing line for negative comments and publicity!

Use restricted mode to block inappropriate content

Use YOUTUBE kids instead

Teach young people to think before you post, especially if the content is sensitive

WHATSAPP
WhatsApp is a useful group messaging app that is less associated with problems than other social media platforms. However, it is worth considering that it generates a considerable amount of extra messaging traffic, and people can feel left out if they are not invited to a group chat. It can be used as a vehicle for cyberbullying and online humiliation. WhatsApp has end-to-end encryption so messages are protected so no one else can read or listen to them.

The minimum age for WhatsApp is 16 due to GDPR issues (anyone on a group chat can access your phone number).

Set your profile picture and live location to friends only

Exit large chats and block unwanted users

Turn off read receipts

For safety tips, go to: https://www.whatsapp.com/safety

TIKTOK
TikTok is the social media app of the moment; it's fun, interactive and has the bonus of the chance of stardom. Users can easily create, edit and share videos with friends and the public at large. However, there are multiple reports of predators using this site to groom and share explicit material. In its default public mode, anyone can view the videos your child shares, and anyone can send your child a video, which could contain explicit content

TikTok's emphasis is on popular music, and many videos include swearing and sexual lyrics. The app autoplays other teens videos, which are very frequently of teenagers wearing revealing clothing and dancing suggestively. Although TikTok won't let you search directly for content such as "sex" or "porn", a significant proportion of its content is highly sexualised videos produced by young boys and girls. We highly recommend downloading the app yourself and getting a clearer idea of what your child will have access to before they download it - it's a real eye-opener. They may plan to use it to post sweet, fun videos, but the content that receives attention on the site is highly sexualised, so there is pressure for users to make their content more "likeable'.

Tik Tok's age limit is 13, but all you need is a fake birthdate to bypass this.

Set the profile to PRIVATE by going into settings. This means that others users cannot see your videos unless they follow you and you have approved them to do so. You can also disable " allow others to find me" so that other users don't receive suggestions to follow you. However, even with a private account, your child's profile photo, username, and bio are still visible to all users on the platform

Turn on restricted mode to filter out inappropriate content - although this feature doesn't appear to make much difference to the content, and we would not recommend relying on it to protect your child.

You can manage who can comment and direct message your child on the app and set it to "friends only". You can also put comment filters on to reduce obscene comments.

Supervise your children and stick to songs you already know.

Block anyone sending inappropriate messages or videos or set to "friends only".

Consider sharing an account with your child or following them so you can see what material they are accessing or set up family safety mode.

Set up time restrictions as with the endless autoplay of short videos, it is very addictive. This can be done via the app itself or via screen time or equivalent on your phone. For further info, go to: https://smartsocial.com/tik-tok-app-guide-parents/

Family Phone Contracts
It will make your life easier if you can agree a contract with your child when they get their first phone. This is a list of what they can and can't do and the consequences should they overstep. You can stick this on the fridge door, so it is seen every day and easy to refer to.

However, behind every contract needs to be conversation, trust, and relationship. Having an open communication channel is the most important thing to have in place at whatever point you are on the tech journey.

If you are delaying buying a smartphone, this is a perfect time to discuss why and get your child on board. If, on the other hand, your child has a phone and you are trying to reign it in slightly, talking about everyone's tech use as a family is a great place to start. The conclusion which you are trying to reach is a shared agreement on some set family values.
Some things you might wish to discuss as a family:

How do we, as a family, want to communicate?

What do we value most about our family?

What do you/ don't you like about our family's use of technology?

What do we / don't we like about social media?

What are our BIG NO's and why?

What compromises can we all agree to?

What will the consequence be if we push the boundaries?

How much screen time is reasonable? In the week? At weekends?

Are phones in bedrooms a good idea? What should our family decision be?

You can find a sample template of a family media contract on the papaya parents' website - https://www.papayaparents.com/solutions#anchor-link-familycontracts Parent Control Apps
When looking at some of the technological solutions available, the first issue is one of trust vs control.

There is a difficult balance between trusting your child with unmonitored access to the internet and putting more boundaries in place to keep them safe (children are often innocent victims online of harmful content sent to them rather than actively going to look for it).

It is worth considering that even sensible and trustworthy children can still be inadvertently drawn into all sorts of mishaps through links from friends, adults posing as children, seemingly innocent searches on google, and algorithms on Instagram.

Putting basic filters on your child's phone is just like insisting children wear a seat belt in a car.

You can use parental control apps to

Monitor screen time

Filter adult content and block sites

For a general guide on parent control apps go to
https://www.papayaparents.com/solutions#anchor-link-Parentcontrolapps
The best parental control app will depend on what type of phone your child has:

If your child has an iPhone, the simplest way to restrict their phone use is to use the inbuilt software. This can control screen time, block adult content, limit or block access to games and restrict internet searching. You can set time limits for different apps and schedule downtime. It is all controlled by a parent password.
Parent control apps on android phones
There are dozens of parental control apps for android phones. Some examples include Qustodio, Google family link, Kapersky, Norton Family
Smartphones and addiction
Dopamine is a chemical in the brain that makes you feel good. It is released in anticipation of a reward - like the build-up and excitement before you go on holiday - it's that feel-good buzzy feeling before something good happening. Our brains are flooded by dopamine as we subconsciously anticipate reward (a nice comment on our photo, a message from a friend or achieving the next level on a game).

Social media and gaming sites have been specifically designed to use these so-called "variable reward schedules" to make our brain release more dopamine (making us feel good) and thereby making them more addictive as we crave more dopamine.

Tech companies like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and google are all caught in a competition for our attention (humanetech.com). They need our attention to make money, and the more, the better. The more we scroll, the more they make, the more we click, the more income they generate.
Dangerous algorithms
Tech companies are employing the best psychologists in Silicon Valley to increase the persuasive technology of their apps and to keep us glued to them - whether its scroll downs, auto-plays on YouTube, notifications, or streaks on Snapchat - they are actively learning how to hook us in more and more deeply.
Questions you can discuss with your child:

How do you feel knowing tech companies are making money from your use of social media?

What do you think about tech companies making their apps specifically more addictive for young people?

How do you react to the fact that Bill Gates sends his children to a tech-free school and limits their tech use?

Do you think tech companies have a duty of care towards young people?

Ask the question: "How would you feel if you were unexpectedly separated from your phone for more than an hour?"

There is no right wrong /answer. However, if you feel worried, agitated and anxious without your phone, it could be a sign that you may be overly reliant on it.

Wi-fi parental controls
In the home, you can set up restrictions to the type of content your child can access and limit screen time through your internet provider settings. You can also pause wi-fi if you need to get children offline straight away or take a break, although if your child also has access to a data plan, they may still be able to access the internet.
Explore safety and privacy settings together Algorithmic literacy
Encourage young people to review their settings on their social media accounts, including providing an accurate date of birth. This can help the algorithms select age-appropriate content. Exploring where block/mute, unfollow and report features are can also equip young people with strategies to deal with inappropriate content that may appear in their feeds.

In the same way that media, information literacy and digital literacy are key life skills for young people, algorithmic literacy is also important. This doesn't require an in-depth understanding of how algorithms operate, but having an awareness of how algorithms are used to target advertising and content to an individual is important.
https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/81254224 Encourage exploration
To understand this better yourself, you may like to watch The Social Dilemma
Talking to your children about online safety
To ensure that young people aren't trapped in filter bubbles or echo chambers, encourage them to search for content across a variety of apps/platforms so that they can more readily encounter different views and perspectives. Encourage them to think critically about what they are viewing so they understand it may not be true.

If there is a culture of shame or secrecy around inappropriate or harmful content, then this will make it difficult for children to ask questions or process things they have seen. It can also be hard for children to understand the permanence of content which they are posting online, and the potential impact this can have on them and their peers. By asking questions about how online content makes them feel we can encourage open conversations and begin to build a deeper understanding of the complexities of online safety.
https://www.childline.org.uk/ https://www.mumsnet.com/articles/talk-about-internet-safety Further information and resources
Useful links for parents and carers talking to their children can be found here:
https://saferinternet.org.uk/guide-and-resource/parents-and-carers/phones
How to start a conversation with your children about using a phone safely:
https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/online-safety
NSPCC staying safe online:
https://www.childline.org.uk/info-advice/bullying-abuse-safety/online-mobile-safety/staying-safe-online/
Childline staying safe online:
https://saferinternet.org.uk/guide-and-resource/young-people/resources-for-11-19s
Resources for 11-19-year-olds:

Useful for young people accessing & who may be worried for themselves or a friend:
https://www.ceop.police.uk/Safety-Centre/
Child exploitation and online protection:
https://www.ceopeducation.co.uk/
The National Crime Agency's CEOP Education team
https://parents.actionforchildren.org.uk/home-family-life/technology/checking-tracking-your-childs-phone/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwtsy1BhD7ARIsAHOi4xZsxe43_EWxhEBtCls8BcUQez7qoInBKqT23aZN8NVr6MdaqWaxwawaAhAvEALw_wcB
Parents checking & tracking children's phones:
https://uk.pcmag.com/parental-control-monitoring/79219/the-best-parental-control-apps-for-your-phone
List of Parental control Apps for phones:

Better Internet for Kids Resources - Educational resources from across the Insafe network of Safer Internet Centres. You can search for 'algorithm', for resources in your language and for resources for different age groups.

CO:RE Evidence Base - A database of publications and research on youth online experiences. Searching the database with 'algorithm' allows you to browse and read relevant research related to this issue.

Track This, is a tool by Mozilla Firefox that opens 100 hundred tabs in your browser to confuse tracking algorithms into thinking you are a particular type of person.

YouTube Regrets - a 2019 study by Mozilla into how YouTube's recommendation algorithm affected individuals.

Do Algorithms Influence Our Lives and Our Democracy? - A free lesson plan from Common Sense Media, aimed at students aged 13-18.

Digital Opportunities: Social Media and Algorithms - Free lessons and resources from Meta, as part of the 'My Digital World' resources.
Written in association with Papaya Parents
How social media algorithms create echo chambers - A free lesson plan by US broadcaster PBS.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Smartphones and social media fact sheet | Nip in the Bud | Free Downloadable Fact Sheet

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The digital landscape has transformed in the last decade and, currently, nine in ten children will own a smartphone by the age of eleven. The long-term impact on children's mental health and development isn't fully understood, but current research suggests that the messages they receive during these formative years can shape their beliefs about themselves and the world around them - sometimes adversely affecting their mental health.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Space Shelter, the new game by Google! Learn how to surf safe the web with this new Space Game!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Interactive online safety activities for 4-7 year olds from CEOP Education at the National Crime Agency.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
When Alfie's not gaming, he's making videos about gaming for his channel. He even talks about gaming in his sleep!

Alfie's gaming videos are the talk of his class, his friends can't wait to hear all the latest tips and tricks. Alfie loves teaching others his skills, he even taught his Nana Nora to game!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
When Alfie's not gaming, he's making videos about gaming for his channel. He even talks about gaming in his sleep! Alfie's gaming videos are the talk of his class, his friends can't wait to hear all the latest tips and tricks. Alfie loves teaching others his skills, he even taught his Nana Nora to game!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Stop, Speak, Support - Cyberbullying guidance for kids | Internet Matters

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Resources for 3-11s - UK Safer Internet Centre

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Films, storybooks and other fun sites, with plenty of information to help you enjoy your time online and stay safe on the internet.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Today's pupils are growing up in an increasingly complex world, living their lives on and offline. This presents many exciting opportunities - but also challenges.

Here's how we're supporting schools to help children use the internet safely.

What are some of the risks to online safety for children?

There are a range of potential harms that come with using the internet. Categories include:

Being exposed to illegal, inappropriate, or harmful content. For example: pornography, fake news, racism, misogyny, self-harm, suicide, anti-Semitism, radicalisation, and extremism.

Being subjected to harmful online interaction with other users. For example: peer to peer pressure, commercial advertising, and adults posing as children or young adults with the intention to groom or exploit them.

Online behaviour that increases the likelihood of, or causes, harm. For example, making, sending and receiving explicit images, sharing other explicit images and bullying.

Risks such as online gambling, inappropriate advertising, phishing and financial scams.

How are children taught about online safety in school?

As part of mandatory RHSE (Relationship, Health and Sex Education) in primary and secondary schools, pupils are taught about online safety in an age-appropriate way. This includes being taught:

what positive, healthy and respectful online relationships look like

the effects of their online actions on others

how to recognise and display respectful behaviour online

how to use technology safely, responsibly, respectfully and securely

where to go for help and support when they have concerns

In primary school, children are taught:

that people sometimes behave differently online, including by pretending to be someone they are not

that the same principles apply to online relationships as to face-to-face relationships, including the importance of respect for others

the rules and principles for keeping safe online: how to recognise risks, harmful content and contact, and how to report them

how to critically consider their online friendships and sources of information

how information and data is shared and used online

In secondary school, children are taught:

their rights, responsibilities and opportunities online

not to provide content to others that they would not want shared further and not to share personal material which is sent to them

what to do and where to get support to report material or manage issues online

the impact of viewing harmful content

that sexually explicit material like pornography presents a distorted picture of sexual behaviours.

that sharing and viewing indecent images of children (including those created by children) is a criminal offence which carries severe penalties

how information and data is generated, collected, shared and used online

How are children educated about things like pornography in school?

Guidance for teaching online safety suggests that secondary school teachers should address the topic of pornography as part of a suitable RSHE curriculum.

Pupils should understand that specifically sexually explicit material such as pornography:

presents a distorted picture of sexual behaviours

can damage the way people see themselves in relation to others

can negatively affect how people behave towards sexual partners

How are you making sure teachers are supported to deliver these lessons? These are complicated subjects.

We have published a support package to help all schools increase their confidence around and the quality of their RSHE teaching practice. This includes expert-led webinars which focus on some of the areas that are most challenging to teach.

In addition, we have recently updated our Teaching online safety in schools guidance, which helps schools to integrate learning about online safety within the curriculum. We are also developing new guidance on teaching about sexual violence and harassment, which will include support for education around pornography and explicit images.

And do you make sure that pupils are protected from online risks in schools?

Our Keeping children safe in education (KCSIE) safeguarding guidance provides all school and college staff with information about different types of abuse and harm, including online abuse.

The guidance is clear that staff should have safeguarding and child protection training (including online safety) at induction, which should be regularly updated. It also explains that schools and colleges should have an appropriate filtering and monitoring systems in place block harmful or inappropriate material on school IT systems.

In addition, schools and colleges should have a strong policy on the use of mobile devices like phones and tablets. It's up to head teachers to decide whether they want to restrict or prohibit their use in schools - if they do allow access, they should have a clear plan to tackle risks to online safety which could arise.

Are there any useful resources to help me talk to my child about safety online?

The following links provide guidance for parents and carers on how to talk to your children about a range of online safety issues. They also show how to set-up child-friendly home filtering and parental controls.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How we promote and teach online safety in schools?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Today's pupils are growing up in an increasingly complex world, living their lives on and offline. This presents many exciting opportunities - but also challenges. Here's how we're supporting schools to help children use the internet safely. What are some ...

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Staying safe online in the summer holidays - advice for parents and carers - UK Safer Internet Centre

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In this blog we look at the ways in which parents and carers can help keep their children safe as they start to spend more time in the online world.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Pan European Game Information (PEGI) informs consumers in the UK and mainland Europe about video game ratings. You can use these to check whether games are suitable for your child.

Other media such as films, content on streaming services and social media platforms have their own systems of ratings as well.

However, the best thing you can do is review content your child wishes to access or set up parental controls to limit access to inappropriate content.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out about the type of inappropriate content that your child may see across the platforms and apps they use and the challenges of keeping them safe.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Together with our partner Google, we've launched the find the fake interactive quiz to help families test their knowledge on fake news and misinformation.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Together with Samsung we’ve created an interactive quiz to help children and young people develop their critical thinking around gender stereotypes online.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Tackling online hate interactive quiz | Internet Matters

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Tackling Online Hate quiz created with Samsung challenges children to stop online hate by being upstanders.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What are parental controls?

Parental controls are settings available across devices, apps and networks. They let you manage screen time, in-game spending, content, communication and more.

We know how hard it is to navigate online safety across all the tech your child interacts with. That's why we've created a range of step-by-step parental controls, safety and privacy guides.

For younger children, these parental controls guides can help you customise their digital experiences and learn online safety. For older children, these guides can help lead conversations around safety settings on social media, in video games and beyond. Showing them how to use safety tools can help them take ownership of their safety.

Will parental controls keep my child safe online?

Parental controls are an important part of online safety. They work like a safety net for when your child spends time online - like the helmet they wear while cycling.

However, they work best if you also take other actions. Having regular, casual conversations about their online experiences is one way to do this.
Learn how to talk about children's digital lives.
Additionally, learning about common online safety issues and staying up-to-date can help you catch any potential harms.

Explore our online issues hubs to learn more.

It's also important to consider whether your child is ready for whichever device, app or game they express interest in.

See our guidance on children's first connected devices.
See online safety checklist

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Set up parental controls on devices and platforms | Internet Matters

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Set up parental controls on a range of devices and platforms to help children develop key online safety and digital literacy skills.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
A parents guide to Fortnite: Battle Royale - UK Safer Internet Centre

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In this blog we are giving guidance to parents about Fortnite, looking at what the game is and some of the things to be aware of.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
By Common Sense Media | February 8, 2024

What is Discord?

Discord is a free app for mobile and PC that lets people chat via text, voice, or video in real time. Combining the internet-calling features of Skype with Reddit-like discussion boards, it's broadened from gamers-only to a social networking site for communities of all types. Users include those with non-gaming interests like anime, TV series, music, and more. It can also be an easy-to-use group-chatting tool for friends.

How old should you be to use Discord?

Discord requires that users be at least 13 years old, although they don't verify users' age upon signup. Common Sense Media also recommends that Discord users be at least 13 due to its open chat.

Because it's all user-generated, there's the potential for plenty of inappropriate content, like swearing and graphic language and images (though it's entirely possible to belong to a group that forbids these). Discord also has "NSFW" channels and servers that require users to be 18 or older to join (but it's easy to click through the verification). (Note: If you're looking for more parental insights on your kids' favorite things online, sign up for our family movie night newsletter.)

What are servers on Discord?

Servers are the main communities on Discord, often focused on a single game or topic. Anyone on the app can create a server upon signup. Servers can be private and require an invitation to join, or public, which anyone can take part in.

Servers are broken up into text channels and voice channels. Some have bots (computer programs that mimic human interaction) that do automatic moderation, welcoming, and community management. Discord doesn't have an in-app way to search for servers unless you've already joined them, so users have to be invited directly or else find out about them from other sources.

Is Discord safe?

With the right privacy settings and monitoring, it's easy to use Discord safely. However, there's always a risk when it comes to sites and apps with open chat. The safest way to use Discord is to only accept friend requests and participate in private servers with people you already know.

Although it's rare, predators have targeted kids by using Discord's public servers to send direct messages (DMs). Even though most server moderators (and other users) are often quick to patrol this kind of behavior, kids and adults should know how to recognize and deal with creeps and online predators.

Fortnite and Pokémon Go are two games with particularly big followings on Discord, especially for older kids and teens. Lots of public servers focus those games, but users also create private servers to chat with friends while they play together. For example, a team on Fortnite could create a private server on Discord to chat and strategize together in order to avoid the public chat on Fortnite itself.

Discord also allows an in-game "overlay" for Fortnite and other PC games so gamers can use Discord to chat directly within those games (instead of having the app open in the background or using the in-game chat).

Are there privacy settings for Discord?

Discord has privacy and safety settings that allow users to control who has the ability to send them direct messages or add them as a friend. Its "Safe Direct Messaging" feature can automatically scan and delete direct messages that contain explicit content (although this isn't foolproof, and it doesn't apply outside of DMs).

Discord also lets its users decide whether the app can collect and use their data for customization or analytics purposes. To view and change your privacy settings, select the "User Settings" gear icon by your username, then choose the "Privacy & Safety" menu item.

Are there parental controls for Discord?

Family Center is a Discord feature that allows parents and caregivers to monitor their kids' activity on the app. Parents will now be able to know what servers their kids have joined or participated in, everyone they've messaged, new users they connect with, and more.

The process for accessing and setting up the Family Center supervision may feel daunting for adults (Discord's site has step-by-step guidance) and is likely to garner some resistance from teens. Also, the feature isn't really a parental control setting as much as it is a usage tracker. Yes, parents can see the usernames and server names their kids are interacting with, but they don't have access to the content in the chats or what they're talking about on video or audio calls. Sure, they can look at the user profile to try to see who's behind the username (which is not likely to be the user's real name), but they may not know who that user is or if it's someone their teen actually knows. Also missing is any in-app limitation on the amount of time teens can spend on the app, so this will have to be done within the iOS or Android settings.

The information the Family Center offers is a great way to monitor any changes in behavior or interactions that might seem suspicious. It also gives parents enough insight to ask informed questions and talk to their kids if they feel concerned. It may not be a set-it-and-forget-it protection measure, but it can help facilitate conversations between parents and kids about their digital habits.

How does Discord chat work?

Each server on Discord has both text and voice channels. Text channels allow people to type messages to each other, while voice channels let people use the microphone and speakers on their device to talk with each other. Users can directly invite friends to a specific chat channel, or you can join a channel after being invited to a server.

Some channels have limits on how many people can join, which are set by the server owners. Server owners can also set their own rules for what is or isn't allowed (for example, swearing or hate speech) and block from chat any users who break the rules.

You can share images, video, and GIFs on Discord, either in text channels or direct messages (voice channels are audio only). Discord also allows for video chat and screen sharing in direct messages.

Is Discord just for gaming content?

You don't have to play video games or even discuss them to use the app. Just about any topic is represented on Discord, although gaming, music, anime, and memes tend to be the most popular categories. The app can also be used for friends and groups to chat with each other directly. Discord has started to lean into more educational content. There are several educational servers and as well as Student Hubs, a feature that has users enter their student email address and then connects them with their classmates in a private server where they can create study groups and interest clubs.

Read Common Sense Media's full review of Discord - Chat for Gamers and learn more about how it works.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Parents' Ultimate Guide to Discord (2024)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Is Discord safe? How does it work? Here's everything you need to know about this popular chat app. Advice from Common Sense Media editors.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Interland is an adventure-packed online game that puts the key lessons of digital citizenship and safety into hands-on practice. Play your way to being Internet Awesome.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Don't Panic - Real world advice and help

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Don't know who to ask? This is your first stop when you need help or support now.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The National Crime Agency's CEOP Education team aim to help protect children and young people from online child sexual abuse.

We do this through our education programme, providing training, resources and information to professionals working with children, young people and their families.

I am:

Respecting me, you, us: building healthy relationships and creating positive cultures is a CEOP Education resource for 12 -14 year olds developed in association with clinical psychologist, Dr. Elly Hanson.

Under 18 and worried about online sexual abuse?
To report, click to visit the CEOP Safety Centre.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The CEOP Education programme from the National Crime Agency's CEOP Education team aims to protect children and young people aged 4-18 from online child sexual abuse.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The National Crime Agency's CEOP Education team aim to help protect children and young people from online child sexual abuse.

We do this through our education programme, providing training, resources and information to professionals working with children, young people and their families.

I am:

Respecting me, you, us: building healthy relationships and creating positive cultures is a CEOP Education resource for 12 -14 year olds developed in association with clinical psychologist, Dr. Elly Hanson.

Under 18 and worried about online sexual abuse?
To report, click to visit the CEOP Safety Centre.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The CEOP Education programme from the National Crime Agency's CEOP Education team aims to protect children and young people aged 4-18 from online child sexual abuse.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Questions, answers and tools to help you make the most of your time online.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Campaigning for change

We fight to change laws to make society safer for children. Our Wild West Web campaign has pushed for new regulations through the Online Safety Bill to make sure websites, apps and games are safe for children to use. But the draft Bill doesn't go far enough to protect children.
Help us end the Wild West Web

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Understanding online safety is tricky for all ages - we have advice and guides to help you learn about staying safe online as a family.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Snapchat privacy and blocking complete LSCP

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Instagram privacy and blocking complete LSCP