Internet safety tips for parents of under-7s
When your child is starting to use the internet
Explore the internet with your child - learn together. Choose child-friendly, safe websites when they first start (such as Glubble).
As your child gets older, use pre-screened websites and child-safe search engines, such as Cbeebies.
Download Hector’s World safety button, which your child can then click if they drift off to a site that’s inappropriate and start panicking.
Glubble website
Cbeebies website
Hector's World safety button on thinkuknow website
Find out what your child knows about the internet
Ask what your child is learning at school about e-safety and reinforce the messages he or she is being taught. Talk to your child’s teacher about what they are covering and how you can help. Attend any events organised by the school about e-safety.
Make a rule that your child always asks you if they are allowed to use the internet. Make a contract with your child and agree the rules together. See the separate sample contract and change it to suit you and your child.
Download online safety sample contract (size 47kb)
Set limits
Use time limiting software to ensure your child has time for other social outlets and activities. You can download free software from some websites.
Make sure your child understands that they must not tell anyone online their name, address or which school they go to. Ensure your child does not send any pictures to strangers as they may not be who they say they are.
Reinforce that your child must always tell you or another adult if there is anything that makes them scared, uncomfortable or sad.
Reporting abuse
Research for yourself, and teach your child about how to report abuse online using the 'report abuse' button on the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) website.
Free software on K9 Web Protection website
CEOP website
Download internet safety tips for parents of under 7s (size 49kb)