The internet is essential in 21st century life for education, business and social interaction. As children move up through the school their access to various types of technology increases and their exploration and curiosity increases too.

The positives of the digital world overwhelmingly outweigh the negatives, but children, schools and parents all need to be aware of various online risks and how we can ensure that children are safe online.

At Nansen follow the SMART Rules:

All primary age children should be supervised online at all times. And that we strongly advise that age ratings for apps should be considered by families. Europol state that they have recently seen a surge in dangerous contact between children and predators on social media apps and the age ratings are there to keep the children safe. 

• Facebook - 13 years old
• Instagram- 13 years old
• Tik Tok -13 years old
• WhatsApp -16 years old
• House Party - 13 years old

Our top tips

• Don’t post any personal information online – like your address, email address or mobile number.

• Think carefully before posting pictures or videos of yourself.

• Never give out your passwords.

• Don’t befriend people you don’t know.

• Don’t meet up with people you’ve met online.  Speak to your parent or carer about people suggesting you do.

• Remember that not everyone online is who they say they are.

• Think carefully about what you say before you post something online

• Respect other people’s views, even if you don’t agree with someone else’s views doesn’t mean you need to be rude.

• If you see something online that makes you feel uncomfortable, unsafe or worried: leave the website, turn off your computer and tell a trusted adult immediately..

• You can also call ‘Childline’ on: 08001111 to talk to someone who can help.