From time to time children may come across content online which may be unsettling and upsetting. It is important that children are aware that they can come and talk to you about this content. Try to reassure your child that it is not their fault for finding this content. If the content is designed to scare children, let them know that it is not real and it cannot do anything to hurt them or anyone they know.
Having regular chats with your child can also help them to use the internet safely. Make sure they know not to accept friend requests from people they don’t know. If they receive messages from numbers they don’t know, they should block the number and tell an adult. You can also remind them that they should not give in to peer pressure if they are asked to take part in a viral challenge.
Finally, take advantage of the parental controls on websites, apps and devices to ensure children can only access age appropriate material.
