Know your T&Cs

Chat to your kids about what sites they like. And explain that if they ignore age boundaries, they might see things that upset them. It's not always easy, but translate the small print for them so they understand. Did they know Instagram can use photos they post and lets other people use them too? When your kids sign up to social media, double check the terms to see if images are uploaded to the cloud automatically. Look at privacy and location terms with them, to help them take control of who sees what. And if your kids are old enough to use social media, get them to look out for updates to terms and conditions – and check what new things they’re agreeing to.

The biggest factor in what your child should be doing online is obviously their age. Little one 5 or under? They’re too young for social media, but you could sign up to 23snaps, to create a private photo album to share with Nanny and Gramps. Child between 6 and 9? They might like LEGO Life, where they can share their love of building, safely. Kid 10-12 and begging for an Instagram account? Show them Kudos. This photo-sharing site teaches good 'netiquette', and a no-comment policy helps prevent bullying. Teen between 13 and 15? They’re probably old enough for most networks now. Chat to them about what’s ok to share, and how to report anything that makes them uncomfortable. Son or daughter 16 plus? Let them explore the world of social media. But talk to them about how privacy settings put them in control of who sees what.