At what age should I teach my child online safety? |
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Teaching online safety should start as soon as your child begins using digital devices or engaging with online content, even in limited ways. From watching videos on tablets to playing online games and eventually engaging with social media, the internet is becoming an integral part of their daily lives.
As parents and carers, teaching online safety is not just about protecting children from harm—it’s about empowering them to make responsible decisions and develop healthy digital habits. But at what age should these lessons begin, and how should they evolve as children grow?
Online safety should be discussed and taught from pre-school age. As soon as children begin to interact with digital devices, often through apps, games, or videos designed for young audiences introducing online safety rules are really important.
🚩The concept of asking for permission before using a device or accessing the internet.
🚩Simple rules, like not clicking on unfamiliar buttons or ads, can be taught in a playful way.
🚩Encourage them to recognise trusted adults who can help if they see something confusing or scary online.
🚩Teaching the importance of keeping personal information private, such as their name, address, school, or family details.
Even at this young age, you can start building their awareness that not everything they encounter online is true, setting a foundation for critical thinking as they grow.
Start early with simple concepts and build on their understanding as they grow, tailoring conversations to their age and online activities.
As parents and carers, teaching online safety is not just about protecting children from harm—it’s about empowering them to make responsible decisions and develop healthy digital habits. But at what age should these lessons begin, and how should they evolve as children grow?
Online safety should be discussed and taught from pre-school age. As soon as children begin to interact with digital devices, often through apps, games, or videos designed for young audiences introducing online safety rules are really important.
🚩The concept of asking for permission before using a device or accessing the internet.
🚩Simple rules, like not clicking on unfamiliar buttons or ads, can be taught in a playful way.
🚩Encourage them to recognise trusted adults who can help if they see something confusing or scary online.
🚩Teaching the importance of keeping personal information private, such as their name, address, school, or family details.
Even at this young age, you can start building their awareness that not everything they encounter online is true, setting a foundation for critical thinking as they grow.
Start early with simple concepts and build on their understanding as they grow, tailoring conversations to their age and online activities.
