Tips to help keep your child safe online It is virtually impossible to stay on top of every new app and emerging issue, or to monitor your child 24/7. Safeguards like parental controls, filters and safe searches can help to screen content and set time limits. However, the best way to positively influence your child’s online wellbeing is by actively helping them to make sound decisions and manage online risks as they arise. eSafety Parents encourages you to take proactive steps, such as to: ● Communicate openly — talk openly and ● ● ● ● ● child to actively think of ideas on how they can keep safe online and how to avoid content that could be harmful to them. your child to think carefully before they is a real person at the other end. Develop a safety plan in case things go wrong — encourage your child to speak to you or another distressed. Be aware of what you and your child can do in cases of cyberbullying through blocking and reporting. Parents can report serious content together. Research or set up your own Explore safety strategies together — get your Encourage respectful behaviour — encourage trusted adult if they encounter something online that makes them feel uncomfortable or Get involved — explore and experience online along in online gaming. and the type of content you share. post, text or share and avoid posting things that may upset others. Remind them there they talk with and the type of sites they visit. social media accounts and apps to get a better feel for any online risks and age ratings. Play time and stick to the rules that apply to the family. Show that you care about your own personal information through privacy settings regularly with your child about their online activities, how they connect with friends, who ● Lead by example — reduce your own screen cyberbullying to the eSafety Commissioner using our cyberbullying complaints form. ● esafety.gov.au/reportcyberbullying Get professional support — if your child is distressed and needs further help as a result of a negative online experience, seek professional help and support. Agree on ground rules in advance — set daily limits for screen time and device free rooms at home. Be clear about the types of sites or apps your child should not visit and personal information they should not share. Where to go for help? Kids Helpline Provides free, 24/7 confidential online and phone counselling for children and young people aged 5 to 25 years. Phone 1800 55 1800 or visit Kidshelpline.com.au eheadspace Offers confidential, free and secure space where young people aged 12 to 25 or their family can chat, email or speak on the phone with a qualified youth mental health professional. Phone 1800 650 890 or visit eheadspace.org.au Parentline Each state or territory has a dedicated Parentline that offers counselling, information and a referral service. Opening hours vary by state. Parentline (ACT) — 02 6287 3833 Parentline (NSW) — 1300 1300 52 Parentline (QLD and NT) — 1300 30 1300 Parent Helpline (SA) — 1300 364 100 Parent Line (TAS) — 1300 808 178 Parentline (VIC) — 13 22 89 Parenting WA Line (WA) — 1800 654 432 esafety.gov.au/parents