Advice for parents and carers

Talk regularly with your child about what they do online and who they spend time with.
Ask them to show you the games, apps or websites they use so you understand how they work.
Agree simple ground rules together about safe behaviour online.
Set up privacy settings, parental controls and screen time limits if useful.
Keep calm if something concerns you. Give yourself time to understand the situation before reacting.

Listen carefully and let them explain in their own words what has happened.
Reassure them that coming to you was the right thing to do and that they are not to blame.
Encourage them not to respond in anger or get drawn into arguments online.
Help them save any evidence such as screenshots or messages.
Show them how to block or mute the person and how to report the behaviour.
Contact the school if the situation involves another pupil or affects school life.
Let them know you will not simply remove their device as this can make them afraid to speak up.

Have a calm conversation about what you have seen or heard and ask them to share their side.
Help them think about how their behaviour might make someone else feel.
Explain that behaviour online has real world consequences and that everyone deserves to feel safe.
Look for any reasons behind the behaviour such as pressure from friends or problems offline.
Agree clear expectations for how they treat others online.
Support them to make amends where possible and to change their behaviour going forward.

Stay curious about your child’s online world. Ask questions without judgement.
Keep communication open. Children are more likely to come to you when something goes wrong if they feel listened to.
Focus on teaching your child how to behave kindly and safely online rather than relying only on strict rules.
Remind your child that they can talk to you, a trusted adult or a helpline if they ever feel unsafe or worried.

Please see below further useful links and advice:

ABA & Our Work