Online Safety is an ever-evolving concern. Last Monday evening, the West Mercia Police held a (very graphic) conference, highlighting some of the worst-case scenarios involving young people and the internet (scenarios that happen here in Worcestershire). It was also highlighted that these 'serious' scenarios all started with low-level inappropriate exploration and misuse at a very early age. Keeping your child/ren safe online has to be a priority for you, and to support you with this we are now going to be sending out a weekly guide on a Wednesday. Please take some time to read the information and keep on top of your child's online activities. 

Cyber Safe Families - Setting Boundaries for Gaming

The online information poster this week is about Setting Boundaries for Gaming.

Behind video-sharing platforms (like YouTube) and streaming TV shows and movies, gaming is the third most popular online activity for children in the UK. In fact, according to recent data from Ofcom, an overwhelming 89% of children aged 3 to 17 play video games. Of those, more than one in five (22%) talk to other players online whom they don’t know outside the game.

The risk of contact with strangers is just one of the reasons that many parents are concerned about their child’s gaming: increased screen time, inappropriate content and in-game spending also figure among the most frequent fears. Agreeing on some rules around your child’s gaming activities can certainly help, and our guide has some useful tips for establishing these boundaries.

If you would like any further information on this topic or any other online issues, please come and speak to us.