How do I set up parental controls on devices and Wi-Fi?

Parental controls can be set on both your home broadband and individual devices. These controls allow you to block inappropriate content, set screen time limits and manage apps or downloads.

Start by checking your home broadband settings, then review controls on each device your child uses (phones, tablets, consoles).

You can use built-in tools such as Google Family Link, Apple Screen Time or Microsoft Family.

Step-by-step guides are available here:
https://www.internetmatters.org/parental-controls/

Additional advice can be found at:
https://parentsafe.lgfl.net/

How do I talk to my child about the internet?

Regular, open conversations are the most effective way to keep your child safe online. You do not need to be an expert!

Start with simple, everyday questions such as:

• What do you enjoy doing online?
• Who do you talk to or play with?
• What is your favourite app or game?

Keep the tone relaxed and show interest rather than asking lots of questions at once. Reassure your child that they can come to you if something goes wrong and that they will not get in trouble.

Further guidance:
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/talking-child-online-safety/
https://www.childnet.com/parents-and-carers/have-a-conversation

How do I talk to my child about difficult topics?

Thorn is an excellent resource. Explore the website and use its conversation guides to help you navigate tricky conversations. It has question prompts to use and allows you to set your own level of comfort for the conversations.

https://parents.thorn.org/discussion-guides/ 

My child has seen something online that has upset them. What should I do?

Stay calm and listen carefully. Reassure your child that they have done the right thing by telling you.

Avoid blaming or taking the device away immediately, as this may stop them from sharing concerns in the future.

You can:

• Talk through what they saw and how it made them feel
• Block or report the content where possible
• Adjust parental controls if needed

If you are concerned about your child’s wellbeing, further support is available:
https://www.youngminds.org.uk/find-help/for-parents/

When should I give my child a phone or their own device?

There is no “right” age. Every child is different, and the decision should be based on your child’s maturity and needs, not pressure from others.

You may wish to start with a device that has limited features before introducing a smartphone.

Before giving a device, consider:

• Setting clear rules
• Enabling parental controls
• Agreeing where and when it can be used

Talk to other parents in your child's friendship group. 

Support and guidance:
https://www.internetmatters.org/

How much screen time is safe for my child?

There is no single rule that works for every child, but guidance is clearer for younger children.

For children under 5, it is recommended that:
Children under 2 avoid screen time, except for things like video calls
Children aged 2 to 5 have no more than 1 hour per day, and less is better

For older children, there is no fixed limit. Instead, the focus is on balance.

Screen time should not replace sleep, physical activity, learning or time with family and friends.

What matters most is how screens are used. Try to:
Choose age-appropriate content
Use screens together where possible
Keep mealtimes and bedtimes screen-free

Setting clear routines, such as no devices before bed or in bedrooms overnight, can also help children develop healthy habits.

More advice:
https://beststartinlife.gov.uk/screen-time-under-5s/