Search

Online safety for pre-teens (11-13s)

Guidance for parents and carers

As pre-teens (11-13) become more independent with their move to secondary school, they become more confident internet users with more varied habits. The internet offers them many benefits, so it’s vital to discuss online safety regularly.

close Close video

Internet safety checklist
Supporting pre-teens (11-13) online

Use these practical tips to help pre-teens have safer online experiences and develop their digital resilience.

Encourage your child to talk to you about how they use the internet and show you what they do. Discuss with them the kinds of things they might come across. A good time to talk is when they get a new device or mention a new website.

Encourage them to use their tech devices in a communal area such as the living room or kitchen and set up a user account for your child. If you think they aren’t old enough to have a mobile phone or tablet, stay firm and explain the reasons why.

Activate parental controls on your home broadband along with all devices including mobile phones and games consoles. Safe search settings can also be activated on search engines and platforms or apps like YouTube, Roblox and TikTok.

If your child has a social media profile, teach them to block or ignore people and how to set strict privacy settings. Request that you or someone you both trust becomes their ‘friend’ or ‘follower’ to check that conversations and posts are appropriate.

Agree and set boundaries with them or have a family agreement for their internet use, including when and where they can use portable devices and for how long, before they get used to doing their own thing.

Talk to children about the benefits and risks of social media before they join any sites or download any apps. Let them know that anything they upload, email or message could stay around forever online.

The age ratings that come with games, apps, films and social networks are a good guide to whether they’re suitable for your child. For example, the age limit is 13 for several social media sites including TikTok and Instagram.

Be aware that if your child is accessing the internet using public WiFi they may not have safety features active. Some providers are part of family friendly WiFi schemes with filters to block inappropriate content. Look out for friendly WiFi symbols like RDI Friendly WiFi symbols when you’re out and about.

Learn about your pre-teen’s favourite video games, platforms and online interests by joining them. Remember, their online life is their real life – so take an interest. Give them the opportunity to show you some of their favourite things.

More on this page

What do pre-teens do online?

Research shows that pre-teens like to watch videos, play video games and use messaging apps.

Most popular platforms

The following platforms are most popular among children aged 11-13. Make sure to set the apps your child uses for safety with the guides below.

Most-experienced online issues

Research shows that pre-teens experience the following issues more than any others. Explore the resources below to help tackle potential harm.

Guide for parents and carers

Download or print this guide to help keep your pre-teen safe online.

Supporting age guides

Explore a range of age guides across online issues to help support your pre-teen.

close Close video
close Close video
close Close video
close Close video
close Close video

Resources for pre-teens

If your child needs additional support, share the following resources with them. From helplines to forums with others their age, there are many ways for them to get support.

Get personalised advice

Receive personalised advice to keep children safe online.