Staying safe online: A supportive guide for Foster Carers

Let’s face it – navigating the online world can feel like walking through a maze with no map! We’re living in the digital age where the internet is more accessible than ever, but for children and young people, it can be tricky to tell the difference between safe and risky online activity. With the buzz around Netflix’s Adolescent, it’s clear that children face some real challenges when it comes to staying safe online. So, let’s dive into some easy tips to help foster carers support foster children to stay safe while exploring the digital world!

1. Keep the Conversation Going!

When you are fostering building trust is super important, and often a child will have experienced trauma. Creating a space where they feel comfortable talking about their online adventures (or misadventures!) helps them feel supported. Encourage them to share their experiences and any worries they might have. When they know you’re ready to listen, they’ll be more likely to come to you with concerns.

2. Set Some Ground Rules

Think of it like making a map for their internet journey! Sit down together and set some fun, clear boundaries for screen time, the websites they visit, and the apps they use. Explain why these rules matter – it’s all about keeping them safe and sound while they’re online. Plus, understanding the "why" behind the rules makes them way easier to follow.

3. Parental Controls – Your New Best Friend

Parental controls aren’t just for tech whizzes! They’re like an extra layer of protection to keep inappropriate content at bay. Use these tools to block out the bad stuff, especially for younger children. Think of it like adding a lock on the door to keep unwanted visitors out.

4. Keep an Eye Out (Without Being a Spy!)

Regularly check in on your foster child’s online activities, like their browsing history, app usage, and social media posts. This isn’t about snooping – it’s about staying one step ahead of any potential issues, like cyberbullying or inappropriate content. The earlier you spot something, the quicker you can help.

5. Let’s Talk About Cyberbullying

No one likes a bully, especially online. Take the time to chat about cyberbullying and make sure your child knows how to handle it if it comes up. Teach them to report bullying, block harmful users, and keep any evidence if needed. Remind them that they can always come to you if something feels off online.

6. Be Kind, Be Cool

Online respect is just as important as offline respect! Foster Carers can teach children to be kind and empathetic online – after all, it’s easy to forget that real people are behind the screens. Explain the potential consequences of sharing inappropriate content or engaging in negative online interactions. Help them understand that kindness and empathy always win the day.

Click here to learn more about the training and support we offer at Nexus Fostering.