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Being online comes with real risks but the right conversations make it a safer place, writes Kate Edwards

5 0
09.09.2025

By Kate Edwards

Online experiences are a fundamental part of all of our lives and it’s inevitable that this is the case for children as well.

The internet can offer many incredible opportunities for children and young people. Children tell us it supports their learning, helps them to stay connected and provides a space to be creative and have fun.

However, being online also comes with real risks. While doing everyday things, such as playing games, children could find themselves speaking to someone who isn’t who they claim to be.

Simply watching videos could mean they are exposed to harmful content, whether it's explicit, violent, or even related to self-harm.

At the NSPCC we hear from parents who are concerned about their children being online.

Many tell us they worry about the content they are being exposed to and how this is shaping their behaviours and beliefs. Others contact us with worries about who their child is talking to online, including experiences of bullying and blackmail.

So, what can parents do to help keep their children safe?

Use Parental Controls

These tools allow you to block or filter inappropriate content across various devices , meaning you can manage........

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