Online Saftey Tips

A Handy Guide for Parents 

Report - A Healthy Influence?

A new report from The Children’s Commissioner for England examines how children aged 13-17 are being exposed online to appearance-changing product, ranging from skincare aReport - A Healthy Influence?

A new report from The Children’s Commissioner for England examines how children aged 13-17 are being exposed online to appearance-changing product, ranging from skincare and supplements to dieting products, prescription-only weight-loss drugs and skin-lightening products.

In the Commissioner’s survey:

• 78% of children said this kind of exposure has a negative impact on self-esteem.

• 41% reported seeing prescription-only weight-loss drugs online (despite an advertising ban).

• Exposure differs by group (e.g., Black and Asian children were more likely than white children to see skin-lightening products; boys were more likely than girls to see muscle-building supplements).

• The report also notes some children are acting on what they see, e.g. 8% reported buying or trying non-prescription weight-loss pills.

The report argues that ad-heavy social media environments (including influencer marketing) and gaps in enforcement are enabling this exposure, and it sets out several policy recommendations.

It makes for an interesting read. Although the report focuses on children 13-17, given that younger children are using social media (and have to lie about their age to do so) it isn't beyond the realms of possibility that this affects younger children too.

Link: A Healthy Influence? Children's Exposure to  Appearance-Changing Products Online.

Popular Apps and Games 

A Handy Guide for Parents 

This handout is for parents and carers, it summarises key findings from Ofcom's Online Nation 2025 report and related Ofcom children’s research. It will help you quickly compare the built-in tools children and parents can use to support healthier use — such as private  accounts, messaging controls, reporting, content filters and screen-time reminders.  

Our December Half term online safety  Newsletter 

This terms newsletter explores New technology uses, AI Chat and some key information on new technology apps. 

Key Information points 

• A simple search of “AI Chat” within the App store highlights the number of AI apps already available, many are rated as 18+ so it is important to speak to our children about them and the risks associated with them.

• As some children may be receiving new technology or related games at Christmas, here is a quick reminder of the importance of setting up appropriate parental controls.

• The Other phone is a new smartphone, which includes “SafetyMode” software. The software automatically blocks nudity, profanity, and bullying language in real time.

Our November Autumn Half term online safety  Newsletter 

This terms newsletter explores whatsapp channels ,the world of capcut and age ratings for social media. 

Key Information points 

• CapCut is a video editing app. Their services are intended for those over the age of 13 (those under the age of 18 must have consent from their parent/legal guardian). It is rated as 13+ on the App store.

• Whatsapp Users should be at least 13 years old to use the add. If your child is using WhatsApp, then you should be aware of WhatsApp Channels. Channels are a one-way broadcast tool used by companies and individuals to send updates to followers.

• Social Media Age ratings exist to help protect your child by showing whether content is suitable for your child’s age. Whether your child is viewing films, accessing apps, playing games online or using social media– make sure you check the age rating first to see if your child is old enough.

A Guide to navigating Social Media Safety  

This is a fantastic guide from the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH), it goes into lots of detail regarding social media safety and how to navigate the ever expanding world of social media as parents.

This guide goes into areas such as: 

• How social media platforms and algorithms operate.

• The various types of harms that children may experience.

• Practical advice and guidance.

• Supporting resources.