Talking to 11 - 13 year olds

Set parental controls on devices your child can access – see our parental controls guide

Talk to your child about what it means to have friends and followers online. Are they real friends? Can they trust them?

Be aware that your child might start exploring romantic relationships. Talk about what they can safely share and who to trust

Encourage your child to be kind to others and think about the impact of words and actions

Talk to your child about what bullying is (hurting someone on purpose/several times over) and how people might bully others online

Encourage your child to tell you if they see or experience cyberbullying

Talk to your child about how they use the internet and what they enjoy

Tell your child that if they can’t talk to you they should talk to a teacher at school or contact organisations like Childline

Don’t jump to conclusions. Gently explore with your child what has gone on before the message or the post

Stay calm if you find out your child is experiencing cyberbullying or cyberbullying others

Be aware that cyberbullying can be a continuation of, or a response to bullying already happening at school or elsewhere

Don’t encourage your child to retaliate in any way that is angry, offensive or threatening

Be aware that cyberbullying can be a continuation of, or a response to bullying already happening at school or elsewhere

Think carefully before taking away your child’s access to their phone or tablet (this can increase loneliness)

Help your child to report any offensive content to the social media provider

Encourage your child to broaden their network of friends and to take part in activities that make them feel good about themselves

Seek help. You could talk to your child’s school or if your child feels harassed or threatened, the police. There are also charities like Kidscape that can give advice