NSPCC asks parents and carers to set aside time to understand their children’s games and interests on the internet
Dear Editor,
Online gaming plays an important part in many children and young people’s lives. It provides them with entertainment, opportunities to learn new skills and allows them to stay connected with their friends.
But there can be risks involved.
This year, the theme of Safer Internet Day (8 February) – an awareness day by the UK Safer Internet Centre – is ‘All fun and games? Exploring respect and relationships online’.
We are supporting the day by challenging parents and carers to host an online games night with their family to get to know their child’s favourite platform and start a conversation on online safety, and how they can support them.
Whether it’s Fortnite or FIFA, talking to your child about what they’re doing online is important in helping keep them safe, and Safer Internet Day is a great opportunity to have this conversation.
Readers can find out how to hold a games night by visiting our online safety hub, which provides advice and information on a variety of online safety topics, at: www.nspcc.org.uk
Yours,
Margaret Gallagher
Head of Service, Local Campaigns at NSPCC Northern Ireland.
