Online Safety
Online Safety for Parents
Our children are growing up in a rapidly evolving digital age. While we believe that technology brings many benefits to modern life, it’s important to remain mindful of the potential risks it can pose.
At Cullercoats, we aim to equip children with the knowledge and skills to navigate the online world safely and responsibly. Our goals include teaching them:
- How to recognise and respond to cyberbullying, including knowing what steps to take if they are affected.
- Responsible browsing habits, including effective and safe ways to search for information.
- The importance of caution when communicating online, understanding that people may not always be who they claim to be and they should never meet up with anyone they only know online.
- The importance of being mindful about the information they share online.
- How to critically evaluate the reliability of information found on the internet.
- The value of speaking to a trusted adult if they encounter something upsetting online.
We recognise that much of our children’s internet use takes place at home, outside the protective filters used at school. For many of today’s young people, there is no line between online and offline worlds.
Helpful Guides to Support Parents
Helpful Websites to Support Parents
Below, you’ll find a selection of helpful websites to support you in discussing online safety with your child:
National Online Safety
National Online Safety is committed to creating a safer digital world for children by providing parents, school staff, and children with the knowledge to identify online risks and respond effectively. Their platform offers regularly updated guides on popular social media apps and platforms your child might use.
NSPCC – Share Aware
The NSPCC celebrates the opportunities the internet offers children to play, learn, and connect. However, they recognise the importance of staying vigilant as the digital world evolves. Whether you're confident online or just starting, their tools and advice are designed to help you ensure your child’s safety in the digital space.
Childnet
Childnet International is a UK charity dedicated to making the internet a safe space for children and young people. Their website offers a wealth of resources and advice, making it an excellent tool for parents.
CEOP
The Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) command, part of the National Crime Agency, provides a platform to report concerns about online abuse or inappropriate communication. Their website also offers guidance on staying safe online.
Thinkuknow
Thinkuknow is an educational initiative created by the CEOP Command of the National Crime Agency. Established in 2006, its goal is to provide practical guidance to children, young people, parents, caregivers, and professionals who support them.
Internet Matters
This website offers an extensive collection of tips and advice to help families navigate the digital world safely. Some of their recommendations are shared below, but for a wealth of additional resources, visit their website.
BBC Own It
The BBC’s "Own It" initiative includes a website and app designed to help children navigate their online experiences. The app features a special keyboard that provides real-time support and advice, empowering children to make safe and positive choices online.
SafeToNet
SafeToNet offers technology designed to safeguard children while they use their devices. Its smart keyboard detects and prevents risks in real-time by filtering harmful outgoing messages, helping children become safer and more responsible digital citizens.
Apps, Social Media and Gaming
Apps and Social Media:
The range of apps and social media platforms available to children is constantly expanding, along with their features and functionality. To stay informed, we recommend visiting Net Aware. This resource offers up-to-date advice on over 70 popular apps, including information on how they work, ways to manage their features and recommended age guidelines.
These apps include:
- YouTube (13+)
- TikTok (13+)
- WhatsApp (13+)
- Instagram (13+)
- Snapchat (13+)
- Fortnite (12+)
- Minecraft (10+)
- Clash of Clans & Clash Royale (13+)
And many, many more.
Gaming
When considering games for your child, we recommend using the PEGI (Pan European Game Information) age rating system. PEGI provides age recommendations and content warnings to help parents make informed decisions about the suitability of games for their children. Visit the official PEGI website for more information: www.pegi.info.