In today’s digital age, the internet offers many opportunities for learning, creativity, and social interaction. However, it also brings risks, especially for children with special educational needs (SEN). As parents and caregivers, it’s important to provide your child with a safe, supportive, and positive online experience. This page will help you understand how to keep your child safe across different devices—mobile phones, tablets, gaming consoles, and computers.
Why is Internet Safety Important for Children with SEN?
Many children with special educational needs have a good level of digital literacy and can navigate devices with independence. Children with special educational needs may be more vulnerable to online risks due to challenges with communication, understanding online safety, or identifying harmful content. They may also be more likely to form online connections that are not safe or appropriate for their age and development.
By taking proactive steps, you can help your child develop healthy digital habits and confidently navigate the internet.
1. Mobile Phones
Mobile phones are often the first personal devices children use, but they come with specific challenges. Here’s how to make mobile phone use safer for your child:
Set Up Parental Controls:
- Most mobile phones, such as iPhones and Android devices, come with built-in parental controls. These settings allow you to restrict app downloads, set screen time limits, and filter content.
- For iPhones: Use the “Screen Time” feature to set limits and restrictions.
- For Android phones: Use the “Family Link” app to monitor your child’s activity and set daily limits.
Social Media Accounts:
Ensure any access to social media (such as Instagram or Snapchat) is restricted and when appropriate supported. Monitor their activity and conversations to help them understand safe interactions.
Teach Basic Mobile Etiquette:
Help your child understand appropriate texting and calling etiquette. Discuss how to recognise phone scams and how to talk to trusted adults if they receive an inappropriate message.
2. Tablets
Tablets are often a favourite due to their touch-screen functionality and easy-to-navigate apps. Here’s how to keep your child safe on a tablet:
Use Kid-Friendly Apps:
Look for educational apps designed specifically for children with special educational needs. These apps can improve skills such as reading, writing, and problem-solving in a safe environment.
Enable Parental Controls:
- Tablets such as iPads and Android devices have built-in controls to limit what your child can access. Activate these settings to restrict content and apps.
- Apple’s “Guided Access” allows you to lock the device to a single app, preventing accidental switching to other apps.
Monitor Usage:
Keep track of your child’s screen time to avoid excessive use and encourage breaks for physical activity and relaxation. This will help balance tablet time with other important developmental activities.
3. Gaming Consoles
Gaming consoles such as PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch offer an interactive experience but come with certain risks, especially regarding online interactions and content. Here’s how to ensure gaming remains a safe space:
Set Up Parental Controls:
- All major gaming consoles allow you to set up parental controls to monitor online interactions, limit access to age-appropriate games, and restrict spending.
- For example, on PlayStation and Xbox, you can control who your child can communicate with online, block certain content, and limit playtime.
Monitor Online Play:
Many games feature multiplayer modes where children can interact with others online. It’s important to supervise these interactions to ensure your child is not exposed to inappropriate language or content. Encourage them to only play with trusted friends or family.
Teach Online Safety:
Teach your child about the importance of never sharing personal information (such as their name, address, or school) while playing online games. Explain that some people online may not be who they say they are.
4. Computers
Computers, whether used for educational purposes or entertainment, are a gateway to a vast range of online resources. Here’s how to keep your child safe:
Install Filtering Software:
Install content filtering software on your child’s computer to block inappropriate websites and limit access to harmful content. Programs like Net Nanny or Kaspersky Safe Kids can help protect your child while they’re browsing.
Use Child-Friendly Browsers:
Consider using browsers or search engines designed for children, such as Kiddle or KidzSearch. These offer a safer online experience with child-friendly search results.
Encourage Open Communication:
Help your child feel comfortable talking to you about anything they encounter online. Let them know they can come to you if something makes them uncomfortable. This will help them understand that they are not alone and that it’s okay to ask for help.
General Tips for All Devices:
1. Create a Safe Environment
Set up a family-friendly Wi-Fi network with a strong password and consider creating a separate network for your child’s devices to limit internet access.
2. Set Boundaries
Establish clear rules about when and how long your child can use each device. Encourage them to take breaks, focus on other activities, and ensure a balance between online and offline time.
3. Encourage Positive Digital Habits
Help your child understand the importance of respect and kindness in online interactions. Encourage them to use the internet for learning, creativity, and social connection in a safe and responsible way.
4. Be Involved
Stay actively involved in your child’s online life. Regularly check in to see what they are doing and who they are interacting with. Show an interest in their online activities and provide guidance when needed.
For more information on specific device settings and resources, feel free to explore helpful websites and guides dedicated to online safety.
Mencap guide:
https://www.mencap.org.uk/sites/default/files/2016-11/Internet-Safety-web-2016.pdf
NSPCC guide:
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/online-safety-families-children-with-send/
Cerebra guide:
https://cerebra.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/internet-safety-2022-low-res.pdf
UK Safer internet centre:
https://saferinternet.org.uk/guide-and-resource/parents-and-carers
Internet Matters:
https://www.internetmatters.org/inclusive-digital-safety/advice-for-parents-and-carers/supporting-children-with-send/
Unicef:
https://www.unicef.org/parenting/digital-parenting
National Online Safety:
https://blog.nationalcollege.com/news/author/national-online-safety
Parent guides:
https://nationalcollege.com/library?sortBy=newest&phase=15&types%5B0%5D=App%5CModels%5CResource&amount=24&selectedView=grid
As a parent of a child with special educational needs, you play a crucial role in guiding their online experiences. By setting up controls, teaching safe online behaviour, and being proactive in monitoring, you can help your child have a positive and enriching digital experience. Remember if you need any help with navigating this please get in touch and we will be happy to help.
Together, let’s create a safe and supportive digital world for our children!