Keeping safe online - advice for Parents & Carers

We know that many parents are confused by the multiple and ever-increasing number of social media apps and websites and so we have collated some useful websites and resources which will be of help to you. 

The Academy recommends all the following websites if you want to find out more information.

• Internet Matters – Comprehensive portal for parents to help keep children safe online.

• Connect Safely – Research-based safety tips and guides for parents, educators, and youth.

• Stop Cyberbullying – Official government resources for preventing and reporting online harassment.

• Childline (Cyberbullying) – Confidential support and advice for young people experiencing online bullying.

• CEOP (Safety Centre) – The UK’s national agency for reporting online abuse and exploitation.

• Parent Zone (Snapchat Guide) – Expert guides specifically focused on making Snapchat safer for families.

• Think U Know – Education program from the National Crime Agency for children, parents, and teachers.

• Net-aware – A guide by the NSPCC and O2 regarding the social networks, apps, and games children use.

• NSPCC (Snapchat Advice) – Detailed advice on managing privacy and safety settings specifically for Snapchat.

• Vodafone (Digital Parenting) – A hub providing practical tech advice and the Digital Parenting magazine for families.

 Safer Internet Day - Useful Information

• Conversation Starters – Helpful tips and questions from the UK Safer Internet Centre to help you start open discussions with your child about their digital life.

• Family Activities – Interactive packs and quick activities designed to help the whole family learn about staying safe online together.

• Family Online Safety – A dedicated hub with toolkits, age-specific advice, and checklists for maintaining a safe digital household.

• Organisations and Resources for Parents and Carers – A comprehensive directory of expert groups providing support on everything from cyberbullying to privacy settings.

• BBC News: Snapchat Most-Used Grooming App – A report on recent police data highlighting the risks associated with Snapchat and the importance of monitoring its use.

• Common Sense Media: Ultimate Parent's Guide to Snapchat – An in-depth breakdown of how Snapchat works, its privacy risks, and what parents need to look out for.

• LGfL: ParentSafe Online Safety – A "one-stop shop" from the London Grid for Learning (LGfL) featuring clear advice on apps, games, and the latest online trends.