Since technology changes so quickly, children (and grown ups) must keep learning to stay up-to-date and adaptable. Ongoing digital education can help your children think critically and stay safe online.

Having regular conversations around smartphones and social media is a good way to check in with your kids. Ask questions and listen to what they have to say. Don’t ever judge or shame - remember you are both on the same team.

One of the best ways to protect your child's online privacy is by building trust and starting the conversation early. By discussing both the risks and benefits of the internet, you can help them develop the critical thinking skills they need to make smart decisions online. Show them how to use privacy settings, block unwanted contacts, and report inappropriate content. The more you talk to your kids about these things, the more likely they’ll come to you if they run into a problem or have a question.

Starting this conversation might feel challenging at first, especially with so many platforms and privacy concerns out there. You might also worry about invading their space or losing their trust. That’s why it’s important to approach it in a supportive, non-judgmental way. Use everyday moments—like browsing the web together or watching a video—to start a discussion. Ask open-ended questions, listen to their opinions, and respect their preferences. Remember, online privacy isn’t a one-time talk, but an ongoing conversation that will grow as your kids and technology evolve.

It’s important that your children know, and feel, they can come to you for help. Creating a safe environment at home to discuss digital issues or concerns is a great idea. Let’s face it, we all make mistakes - even as grown ups. If they make a mistake, be sure to keep your cool and try not to panic. Getting angry will only push them away and close any future potential conversations with them.

Also, try to avoid being punitive. If your child does need more limits then discuss these with them and set them more as tools to help them.

Practicing role plays will help your kids to gain skills and confidence to manage themselves in different scenarios. Start by explaining why you're doing this. Tell them that the goal is to help them handle difficult or uncomfortable situations they might face on social media, like cyberbullying, peer pressure, or fake information. Make it clear that this is about learning how to respond, and not about scaring them.

Take turns acting out the roles, practicing different responses like ignoring, reporting, or responding calmly. After each scenario, discuss what worked, how they felt, and if there’s a better way to handle it.

Emphasise kindness, empathy and respect for others, and make role-playing a regular activity to build their confidence and problem-solving skills online.

Remember that your children are always watching you! Modelling good phone behaviour involves setting clear examples of healthy phone use and balancing screen time.

Start by setting boundaries, like avoiding phones during meals, conversations, or any family time. Show them that phones shouldn't interrupt life’s important moments. Limit your own screen time and be fully present when spending time together, teaching the value of real-world engagement over digital distractions.

Use your phone for productive tasks like learning or work, rather than just social media or entertainment, and explain your reasons for using it when necessary. Talk openly with your kids about online safety, responsible sharing, and balancing phone use with other activities, so they understand how to develop healthy digital habits.