THE internet can be a fantastic place for children and young people where they can talk to friends, be creative and have fun. However, just like in the real world sometimes things can go wrong.

If you or your child are worried or upset about something which has happened on the internet there is help out there.

Click on the links below to find out more information

ESSENTIAL GUIDANCE

• THINK about how you guide your family in the real world and do the same in the digital world – don’t be afraid to set boundaries and rules for your child from a young age.

• HAVE a go at some of the technologies your son or daughter enjoys – play on the Wii together or ask them to help set you up on Facebook if you’re not already a member.

• TALK to your friends, family and other parents about how they help their children to manage their digital world – you might pick up some interesting tips.

• MAKE the most of tools like Parental Controls on computers, mobiles and games consoles, privacy features on social networking sites.

• TRY not to use technology as a babysitter too often – we all do it sometimes but it’s important to know what your child is doing.

• MAKE digital issues part of everyday conversation – show your child that you understand how important technology is to them and talk about all its amazing benefits, but don’t shy away from difficult subjects like responsible online behaviour, bullying and pornography.

Under 5’s checklist 

1. START setting some boundaries now – it’s never too early to do things like set limits for the amount of time they can spend on the computer.

2. KEEP devices like your mobile out of reach and make sure you have passwords/PINs set up on them for the times you might lend them to your child... or for when they simply get hold of them themselves!

3. CHECK the age ratings and descriptions on apps, games, online TV and films before downloading them and allowing your son or daughter to play with or watch them.

4. EXPLAIN your technology rules to grandparents, babysitters and the parents of your child’s friends so that they also stick to them when they’re looking after your child.

5. REMEMBER that public Wi-Fi (e.g. in cafés) might not have Parental Controls on it – so, if you hand over your iPad to your child while you’re having a coffee, they might be able to access more than you bargained for.

6. SET the homepage on your family computer or tablet to an appropriate website like Cbeebies.