Below are some of the most commonly used APPs. With each APP is a brief description of it and its purpose. However, it is illegal for children of primary school age to use many of these APPs, and many have safeguarding risks to them as they often allow communication with people who can mask their real identity behind virtual characters.

Do you know which APPs your child is using?

Do you know whether they are using them legally?

Do you know the purpose of the APPs that your child is using?

Do you know the risks and how to keep your child safe on the internet?

Make the time to talk to your child about what they are doing on the internet, which APPs they are using, take an interest on who they are speaking with online, who they are gaming with online, and ask your child what they know about that person. Restrict the use of the internet and access to certain websites and APPs. If you are unsure of anything report it. In an ever changing world, where more time is spent online and in a virtual world, make as many opportunities as you can to keep life real, develop real life experiences with your child, real life skills and social interactions, remembering to play virtual and live real.