The internet is amazing when used safely and correctly. It gives children the opportunity to play, create, learn and connect. However, children with special educational needs are more likely to experience the negative impact of the internet when accessing games, apps and social networking sites.

We want to encourage our pupils to enjoy the online world safely. Here are our top tips to online safety at home:

• Develop family rules together about online use

• Learn about new apps, games and social media

Internet Matters provides the latest information and advice on the social network apps and games that children are using.

HTTPS://WWW.INTERNETMATTERS.ORG/

The National Online Safety also has a mobile app that empowers parents to understand and address online safeguarding risks – anytime, anywhere. Set parental controls so that you can block certain sites, images and content online. You can download the app via Android Google Play or Apple Store.

HTTPS://NATIONALONLINESAFETY.COM/

If you are worried about online sexual abuse or the way someone has been communicating with your child online, let CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command)

HTTPS://WWW.CEOP.POLICE.UK/SAFETY-CENTRE/

The NSPCC has partnered with Ambitious about Autism to bring online safety tips, advice and activities specifically for parents and carers of children with SEND. It includes reviews and guidance on the most popular social networks, apps and games that children use.

HTTPS://WWW.NSPCC.ORG.UK/KEEPING-CHILDREN-SAFE/ONLINE-SAFETY/ONLINE-SAFETY-FAMILIES-CHILDREN-WITH-SEND/SUPPORTING-ONLINE-WELLBEING-FOR-CHILDREN-WITH-SEND/

ParentSafe – dedicated portal to help parents keep children safe online

ParentSafe is a one-stop portal offering parents support and advice on safe settings, parental controls and monitoring, apps and games, talking to children about life online, screentime and key topics from bullying to extremism and gangs, fake news and more.

HTTPS://PARENTSAFE.LGFL.NET/