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Early Years resources

Free online safety teacher resources

From child-friendly apps and games to resources that support balanced screen time, our Early Years resources offer teachers the insights they need to support children under 5.

A child aged 5.

Online risks for Early Years children

The digital world offers a variety of benefits, but children in Early Years might not understand the harmful risks they face online.

Below are common online safety issues that children under 5 might experience. See what they are and how teachers can help them stay safe.

Nearly 1 in 3 parents agree that their 3-5-year-old spends too much time on screens. At this age, children largely watch content, which is often passive. It’s recommended that children in Early Years move around frequently. So, if there is screen time, videos that teach dancing or movement are helpful.

It’s also important to teach mindfulness. If watching something makes a child feel tired or upset, they should learn to take action against it.

Resources for parents:

  • Online safety starts early: Share this video series with parents to help them develop good online habits with their child early on.
  • Apps and platforms: Explore apps and platforms to support children’s learning and wellbeing.

Inappropriate content can come in many shapes at this age. It does not need to be graphic violence or pornography to be inappropriate for under-5s.

Anything that is directed at older children might also be inappropriate for children in Early Years.

It’s important to consider their development before allowing access to certain content. YouTube Kids is a better alternative to YouTube, for example. It offers more restrictions and safeguards to protect very young children.

Resources for parents and students:

Popular apps and platforms

Learn about highly-rated apps and platforms for children under 5 that many use to understand and interact with their world.

YouTube Kids is a great alternative to regular YouTube at this age. Parents can set strict content limits, screen time and more.

Guides for online safety

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