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Where to start with kids online safety

We’re here to help you find the best ways to keep your kids safe online.

How to start the conversation

Talking regularly about your child's digital life is one of the best ways to help keep them safe online. Start with simple, everyday questions about what they enjoy, who they spend time with and anything that's made them laugh, think or worry.

Keeping conversations open and judgement-free makes it more likely they'll come to you when something doesn't feel right. For more practical conversation starters and expert online safety tips, visit Internet Matters.

More from Internet Matters

Use the controls and tools available from broadband providers, online platforms and apps to install safe search settings, block inappropriate content and prevent contact from strangers.

Find out more

Agree time limits with your children for their screen time, along with a healthy balance of activities. Try to prioritise productive uses like learning and creating over passive ones like watching videos, and include some social activities such as talking or playing with family and friends.

Find out more

Check the apps your kids are using, and their age limits. Remember to chat regularly with them about online safety and things they might come across online, and work with them to keep their experiences positive and minimise risks.

Find out more

Setting up a device

Setting up a new device for yourself can be daunting. Setting one up correctly for a child can be even harder. But don't worry - with the help of the Internet Matters device setup guide, you can have them safely up and running in no time.

See the guide

Healthy digital habits

Just like in the physical world, maintaining healthy habits online is an important aspect of keeping kids safe.

The Internet Matters guide to children's digital wellbeing can help you guide children towards making more healthy choices online.

Take a look


Keeping kids safe online

Your child's first phone

How to keep your child safe when they get their first phone.


Managing your child's online safety

Learn about parental controls, monitoring tools and other tips that can help keep your kids safe online.

Children's privacy

Children's personal data and privacy rights.

The children pictured are models.

Last updated: 13/08/2026