In the UK new research reveals children appreciate their parents’ guidance in how to navigate the online world. Despite their reputation as clued-up Digital Natives, three quarters of nine to 16 year olds feel they benefit from talking to their parents about their internet use. Contrary to popular perceptions that parents are in the dark, two-thirds of children say their parents always know what they are doing online.
Parents who talk to their children about the internet help to protect against potential online risks, according to the research. The benefits of active discussion include: lower risk, lower harm, access to more online activities and access to a greater level of skills.
The UK Safer Internet Centre has designed an Internet Safety IQ test for you to take now.
Safer Internet Day 2017 is celebrated globally on Tuesday 7 February with the slogan “Be the change: Unite for a better internet”. Co-ordinated in the UK by the UK Safer Internet Centre the celebration sees hundreds of organisations – like facebook and BT – get involved to help promote the safe, responsible and positive use of digital technology for children and young people. See How you can help keep your children safe.
Coordinated in the UK by the UK Safer Internet Centre the celebration sees hundreds of organisations get involved to help promote the safe, responsible and positive use of digital technology for children and young people. Kaspersky Lab's recent research shows that primary school aged children are at increased risk of cyberbullying as no one is discussing the issues with them.
As the new term starts and even very small children are learning about computers, child psychologist Dr Amanda Gummer urges parents to understand and embrace mobile technology and gives some top tips.
Running out of power on a mobile can be so stressful if you're a parent and need to be in touch with your family. Kingston MobileLite Wireless resolves this problem and also offers wireless network sharing. Anne Coates put it to the test.
Finally, the wait is over and the Andy Pad has arrived! The new Android-powered tablet provides the best of both worlds as it is affordable and doesn't scrimp on performance or quality. Parenting Without Tears has one Andy Pad worth £129 to be won.
A new computerised game from VTech means that young children can practise their literacy and numeracy skills without being aware that they aren't just playing games as the Toy Story character calls out the instructions on the Buzz Lightyear Star Command Laptop.
Leading charities and their patrons back a call for the families of children with severe disabilities or special educational needs to apply immediately for a Home Access package with assistive technology before the Government’s Home Access programme closes.
The Internet is a wonderful resource but are we doing enough to keep our children as safe in the virtual world as we would hope they are in the real world?
During school holidays, children are likely to spend more time online, making them more vulnerable to online predators. As a parent, it is crucial to take proactive steps to protect your children, says Cyber Security expert Robert Kirk from SEO Builder. provides tips on essential device settings to switch off to ensure their online safety.
Research conducted by the NSPCC reveals that less than a fifth of parents are having frequent chats with their children about online safety. The figures are being released to coincide with the launch of the NSPCC’s Share Aware campaign.
Internet Matters joins forces with Dixons Carphone to launch "Digital Drop-ins" for parents at Currys PC World and Carphone Warehouse stores across the country. Stores are giving practical advice to parents and guardians on child internet safety ?and help them set up devices safely until 28 April.
According to recent research carried out by AVG Technologies, parents are disregarding online hazards faced by their children and are failing to educate them on internet dangers. However there is plenty of excellent advice available from CEOPs.
It's a day that's eagerly anticipated by some, dreaded by others – and that's just the parents of A level students! Here Anne Coates gives her top ten tips for parents to support their offspring.
Christine Mayle reviews Kaleidoscope Entertainment's action-packed family animation adventure film based on Swedish best-selling author, Camilla Läckberg’s, children’s hit book series, Super Charlie.
Summer's here and it's barbecue season and with this great play set the kids can enjoy cooking indoors or outside with probably more utensils than the adults own, writes Anne Coates.
Front Room Productions and Lawrence Batley Theatre expose the sensational trial for Humpty Dumpty’s murder this summer in a new fairy-tale inspired musical. Review by Joe O'Neill.
This charming adaptation of the Three Musketeers tale, with the well known “all for one and one for all” motto at its core, is a couple of hours very well spent, writes Sarah Taylor who attended with her son.
Sun protection becoming a daily battle? Dr Sonia Khorana shares her hacks for helping to keep children safe in the sun, including tips for applying suncream to reluctant little ones.
An energetic and entertaining start to the first full week of the Edinburgh Fringe as The Crawl, performed at a nearly-full Pleasance Dome, Edinburgh. Review by Joe O'Neill.
This whimsical retelling of a beloved fairy tale is a delightful adventure, bursting with laughter, infectious original songs, and playful mischief. Simon Collins' two young daughters loved the experience.
The trials and tribulations of pre-teen life and the start of secondary school are the subject of this first volume in a new comedy series. Review by Elaine Hewlett.
One in four women in the UK experiences bladder weakness – stress incontinence – but for most of them this could be solved by exercising the pelvic floor muscles.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Richard Scarry's Best Counting Book Ever, we have teamed up with HarperCollins Children's Books to offer you the chance to win a copy.
What to do when your city is full of out-of-control magic? Send in the cleaners! Elaine Hewlett reviews this delightful tale, perfect for middle grade readers.
There are a staggering 48 signs of menopause. M-Club has been set up to create a supportive community to help navigate this important stage of a woman's life.
Mark Bradley's full-colour graphic novel, the fifth in his Bumble & Snug series was greeted with great enthusiasm by Natasha Da Souza's older daughter.
Endearing fable about family, fun, friendship, and fear. Heidi proves love triumphs in the face of evil and corruption – animated film in Odeon cinemas from 1 August, 2025.
According to a recent report – Skin Matters by Hada Labo Tokyo – some 80 per cent of women have gone our on a warm and sunny day wearing no sunscreen. Anne Coates recommends their Water-Resistant Moisturising Sunscreen: Face Cream and Sun Lotion for your body.
With social media, there’s always something to compare: the child who seems to excel at everything, the family who’s always having more “picture-perfect” moments. If you or your child are caught in this comparison trap, there’s good news: you’re not powerless.
Fantastic magnetic shapes which actually increase in value as children get older and it's certainly fun for adults to join in with as Anne Coates discovered, playing with her granddaughter Lizzie.
Creating stability for children during divorce requires planning, communication, and practical solutions. These ensure both households operate clearly, allowing children to maintain their routines and relationships.
Whether your taste is for Mexican, Italian or French food, here are four restaurant chains offering a free child's meal when an adult orders a main course – valid throughout the school summer holidays.
Helen Little reviews this lagoon shaped pool which is large enough for all the family to enjoy if you have adequate room in your garden. The Bestway Pool is available from BM Stores.
Looking for somewhere to take the kids without breaking the bank? City farms are often free – or they ask for a donation – and offer families opportunities for wonderful interactions with a range of animals and birds.
Health Optimisation Summit explores the latest innovations, trends, and strategies in health and performance. Founder Tim Gray reveals his top health tips for making the most of your vacations.