Getting ready to talk
Think about when and where best to talk to them – in the car or a neutral place where they feel safe.
Jot down what you want to say to focus your mind, and make the conversation relevant to them.
Be open and encouraging to make them feel supported.
Have a few bite sized conversations to give them time to process.
What you need to know
Gauge their knowledge
Think about your child’s understanding of the internet. Are they already clued up or do they need more support?
Set goals
Think carefully about what you want to get out of the conversation.
Set boundaries
What boundaries do you want to put in place when it comes to your child being online? Can you come up with an agreement together? What boundaries does your child think is fair?
Awareness of vulnerabilities
Be aware that disabled children and those with special needs (SEN) are more vulnerable to cyberbullying, but that doesn’t mean it will happen to your child.
Support online use
Although vulnerable young people are at greater risk to cyberbullying online, don’t discourage them from using it. Instead, find ways to support them.
Set examples
Bullying is a learnt behaviour – so it’s important to set a good example and regularly reinforce being a good digital citizen.
More on cyberbullying conversation starter guide
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