TEACH KIDS TO USE SOCIAL MEDIA SAFELY

With the internet at their fingertips, children are vulnerable, so show them how to use it happily and safely

n inquiry by the A Commons has said children should get lessons at school in how to “manage the risks” of Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat, amid soaring levels of online sexual abuse and bullying.

This is a harrowing concern, because most of our children have access to these platforms and are often unaware of the dangers, so it’s our job as parents to prepare them.

Both my children have the maximum privacy settings on all social media, so they get control over who they invite into their cyber worlds, and I’d advise every parent to do the same.

When your children start using the internet, make sure you discuss what they might find. Tell them about pornography so that they know they can be honest with you if they see it. Download free safe search tech, like K9 or Safe Eyes, which will stop porn appearing in searches.

Kids are always going to want to share selfies, but safety is key. It’s essential they have an awareness of predators, as this helps them understand why it isn’t cool to upload provocative photos online.

Help them think of the future, rather than just what will make them laugh right now. Would they want a future boss to Google them and see that image? If not, they shouldn’t post it.

Personally, I believe that you should give children some trust with their tech, but every parent feels differently.

The most important tool that any parent has is positive communication with their kids. By talking about the issues of social media, you will equip them with the strategies they need to be safe online.