It is really important that parents and carers work with us to help children stay safe when using technology.
When we talk about online safety, we don’t just mean the internet. We mean all forms of digital technology — computers, games consoles (such as Xbox or PlayStation), mobile phones, televisions, tablets (like iPads), and much more.
What we teach at Lancasterian
We help children to become confident, respectful and safe digital citizens by teaching them:
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Safe use: how to use the internet safely, and what to do if something goes wrong or they see something upsetting or inappropriate
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Protecting privacy: how to keep personal details private and keep their data secure
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Positive behaviour: how to be courteous and responsible online, and what to do if others are unkind or behave inappropriately — this links with our behaviour and anti-bullying policies
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Healthy balance: how to use technology in a balanced way, without overusing games, mobiles or social media
We also ask parents and carers to read and agree to our Parent/Carer Acceptable Use Policy, which outlines our expectations for safe use of technology. We ask for permission for the use of photos and videos of children on our website and in other school publications.
Why this matters
Children today spend more time online than ever before. While much of this is positive, they can sometimes come across content that is harmful, upsetting or confusing.
Research shows that many children see inappropriate content or receive messages from strangers online, but do not always tell an adult about it. At the same time, the majority of children say they trust their parents’ opinion — which shows just how important regular conversations at home can be.
Talking openly with your child is the single most effective way to help keep them safe online.
Six top tips for parents and carers
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Don’t allow or ban a game or app just because of what others say. Instead, explore it yourself — ask your child to show you, or try it together.
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Check the age rating (PEGI) and privacy settings before your child uses a game or app.
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Set time limits and keep devices in shared family spaces so you can see and hear what’s happening.
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If the game or app has voice or text chat, make sure you know who your child is talking to and how to block or report people if needed.
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Use privacy settings to limit who can contact your child or see their profile.
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Be aware of in-app purchases. Check if your payment card is linked to the device to avoid accidental spending.
If your child ever sees something that worries or upsets them online, encourage them to stop, close the device, and talk to a trusted adult straight away.
Together, we can help our children enjoy the benefits of technology safely and responsibly.
Social Media
WhatsApp parent factsheet.pdf
YouTube parent factsheet.pdf
A practical guide for parents and carers whose children are using social media
Guide to Snapchat
Snapchat checklist
Social media guidance
Instagram checklist
Child safety on TikTok parent factsheet
Devices
Top tips for iPad
Top tips for iPhone
Top tips for Kindle Fire
Top tips for Nintendo devices
Top tips for Xbox
Top tips for PlayStation
Vodafone online digital parenting magazine
Gaming
Six things parents need to know about Fortnite
Parents’ Guide to games
Guide to live streaming
Guide to Fortnite
Guide to Roblox
NSPCC
Protecting Children from Radicalisation
NSPCC Share aware guide
O2 and the NSPCC Keep kids safe online
Keeping children safe online
Parentzone
Parentzone
The 6 apps and services that every parent should know about
Parentzone and Online Safety resources, magazines and guides
Everything you need to know about online gaming
Parentzone guides to apps and games online
Other Useful Guides
Parent Safe
Safer internet
Think U Know
Vodafone Digital Parenting
BBC parents
Common Sense Media guide for parents
Guidance from the Department of Education on cyberbullying
Educate against Hate Website looking at tackling extremism and radicalisation
Scary challenges online
How to spot fake news
6 top tips for parents on screen time
Results of the LGfL online safety survey