With nearly 9 in 10 children owning smartphones before age 11, families across the UK are grappling with the balance between learning, creativity and connection, and the risks and harm these devices can cause if safeguards aren’t put in place. It’s essential parents are aware of best practice when it comes to setting up new devices that are to be used by children.
This isn’t always the case; a recent study found that one in seven parents aren’t confident they know what their children are seeing or hearing online, highlighting gaps in awareness and the need for better safety tools and conversations. Reinforcing these concerns, a new survey by Virtual College found that one in five parents (20%) reported their child had been exposed to misinformation or false news online in the past 12 months, while 18% said their child had encountered encouragement to buy items through influencers or stealth advertising, and 13% reported exposure to content that causes unhealthy comparisons or body-image pressure.
From inappropriate content to online bullying and unwanted contact, parents and carers are being urged to think more carefully about their child’s digital safety, and how to spot the signs their child may be facing danger online.
Katherine Pavling at online training provider Virtual College, explains best practice for ensuring digital devices are safe for children to use and how to spot danger signs:
“For children, it’s always exciting to receive a new digital device or be allowed online, but for parents and carers it’s important to first pause and think about online safety. New devices can open up fantastic learning and social opportunities, but without the right protections in place, they can also expose children to risks that aren’t always immediately obvious.
“Taking the time to set up parental controls, privacy settings, and age-appropriate restrictions can make a huge difference. Just as importantly, parents should help children understand how to stay safe online and reassure them that they can speak up if something worries them. Protecting children in the digital world is a shared responsibility, and a little preparation now can help ensure new tech is enjoyed safely and confidently.
“Parents should be mindful of subtle changes in behaviour that may signal something isn’t right, such as a child becoming withdrawn, secretive about their online activity, or suddenly anxious after using their device. These small shifts can sometimes indicate issues like online bullying, inappropriate content, or unwanted contact. Having regular, open conversations about what children are doing online is just as important as any technical controls.”
Photo by Antoni Shkraba Studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/siblings-using-phone-6837500/
