Question:

At which age should children be allowed to spend time online alone, for example, in a separate room? Are there any “danger signals” we parents should look out for?

Answer from Kids and Media’s Director:

As a general rule of thumb, I recommend that PC’s, TV’s and game consoles are placed in a common room until the children are teenagers, if this is practicable. If you have a webcam, I recommend that you carefully consider where this is placed, and that you have a discussion with your child regarding the safe use of the camera. Wireless networks and laptops / mobile phones with Web access makes this issue more complex and parents need to be aware of all the opportunities their children have to connect to the Internet in their home.

Have a discussion with your children about their Internet experiences, talk together about limits, make them aware of challenges they might encounter, and agree on what to do if they experience something unpleasant. In addition, agree on who it is all right to add as friends in chat programs and social communities. Make it clear that if they want to meet someone they have met online in real life, then an adult (e.g. you :-) ) has to accompany them.

When it comes to danger signals, sudden changes in behaviour, a desire for isolation, and that a child suddenly doesn’t want to talk to the parents, are potential signs that should be taken seriously.

Related articles on kidsandmedia.co.uk:

10 rules for Internet use

Advice about children and web cameras

Teach kids online security basics

Age-based guidelines for kids' Internet use

Tips for parents on safe net use