This year, Safer Internet Day is on Tuesday, 8 February and will be exploring respect and relationships on the internet through the theme ‘All Fun and Games?’.

The digital world offers children and young people many positive opportunities for learning and discovery but can also pose risks to their wellbeing and safety.

Schools and nurseries across Ealing will be promoting online safety through themed activities, learning events and via media channels. Encouraging young people to develop support and respectful online communities, while giving them the skills they need to keep themselves and others safe in these spaces.

#PlayYourPart

Councillor Kamaljit Nagpal, cabinet member for a fairer start said: “This year’s Safer Internet Day campaign will be using the hashtag #PlayYourPart and explores how we can all work together to make the internet a kinder, more supportive place, whether when watching, creating, or exploring content online.

“You do not need to be an expert on the internet to help keep your child or grandchild safe when online. Check out some of the tips below to support your child to use the internet safely, responsibly and positively.”

Top tips

Here are some top tips to help:

1. Talk with your child about how they use technology and find out what their digital life is like, including what their favourite sites are and how being online makes them feel.
2. Have a balanced approach. It’s natural as a carer to feel worried about the risks but for young people the online world is exciting and fun. Ask your child to share with you their favourite things to do online, as well as discussing the risks they might come across.
3. Use the tools available to you.  There are lots of tools to help you manage all your devices.  For example, know how to activate and use parental controls.  If you’re not sure look at the parents’ guide to technology for help.
4. Start with a family agreement. The online world is an increasingly large part of family life, so it makes sense to approach it as a family too.  Why not make a pledge together on how, as a family, you’re going to use the internet safely and positively.

For more advice and support visit the Safer Internet site, CEOP Think You Know website and Ealing Family Information Service.