Online Safety Parent Advice

As your child moves through Key Stage 2, their online world expands rapidly—from educational games to group chats and creative platforms. At this age, the most effective safety tool isn’t just a filter, but an open and honest conversation. We encourage you to move beyond “the big talk” and instead make digital safety a regular part of your daily routine. Try the “WHO, WHAT, WHERE” approach: stay curious about who they are talking to, what games or apps they are enjoying, and where they are going online. By positioning yourself as a “digital partner” rather than just a monitor, you ensure that if they ever encounter something confusing or upsetting—be it a “friend request” from a stranger or a “streak” that feels overwhelming—they will feel confident coming to you first without the fear of losing their device.

 

Quick Tips for KS2 Parents:

• Model Healthy Habits: Children often mirror our tech use. Try implementing “device-free” zones during mealtimes or an hour before bed.

• Check Age Ratings: Many popular apps like TikTok and Instagram have a minimum age of 13. Reviewing these together can help your child understand why certain platforms aren’t suitable yet.

• Privacy First: Teach your child to keep “private” information (like their school name, full name, or location) off their profiles.

• Empower Their Voice: Remind them that they have the right to say “no” to sharing photos and the power to block or report anything that feels “wrong.”

• Kids Online Safety Hub: The UK Government recently launched the Kids Online Safety Hub (2026) to help families spot misinformation and build digital resilience. It is a great resource for staying up to date with the latest trends.

 

Additional links and resources for Online safety

At Ocean Academy, keeping children safe online is a top priority for our staff, parents, and carers. To help you protect your child, navigate digital risks, and foster healthy internet habits at home, we have gathered key local contacts, government initiatives, and recommended guides below.

Local Police & Professional Support

• Safe Schools and Communities Team (Dorset Police): Offers tailored training packages for pupils, parents, and school staff, alongside direct advice for specific online safety concerns.

  • Phone: 01202 222844

  • Email: SSCT@Dorset.PNN.Police.uk

  • Website: Visit the Dorset Police Online Safety Hub for local advice and updates.

• UK Safer Internet Centre: Operates a dedicated helpline to support school professionals managing online safety incidents.

Official Government Advice

• HM Government Kids Online Safety Campaign: Access official, step-by-step guides and age-appropriate advice to help protect your children across social media apps, gaming platforms, and connected devices.

External Guides & Family Toolkits

Explore these trusted external resources for practical, step-by-step help setting up devices and starting open conversations with your child:

• Internet Matters:

  Internet Matters – Protect from harm

  Internet Matters – Set up Safe

  Internet Matters – Anonymous App

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  Digital Family Toolkit: Interactive tools to help your household establish healthy screen time and online habits.