Internet safety
Create a family tech agreement
Build shared expectations for privacy, online messages, and asking for help.
2 minute read · A small idea to try
Begin with real situations
Ask what each person enjoys online and what sometimes feels difficult. A younger child's agreement might cover asking before downloading; a teenager may want to discuss group chats, photos or late-night notifications. Explain the reason for each boundary.
Agree on three habits
Choose a few habits the adults will follow too.
- Ask before sharing another person's picture or private details.
- Pause when a message pressures you to click, pay or reveal information; check through a trusted route instead.
- Tell a trusted adult about something worrying, even if you clicked first.
Use a pretend example
Say a message claims a game account will close unless a password is entered immediately. Practise closing the message and opening the official app directly. Do not click a suspicious link just to investigate it. Show your child how to block or report within the service they use.
Keep help available
Agree to listen first when a child brings a problem. You can respond to unsafe behaviour while appreciating that they asked for help. Review the agreement when devices, apps or family routines change. One useful next step is choosing a screen-free family moment together.
One thing to take with you
A child should know both the boundary and who will help when something goes wrong.
Sources and further reading
Source guidance checked September 2026. Momora's examples are practical suggestions you can adapt.