Internet safety
Get insights on how young children are using the internet and how you can support them to access technology safely.
What young children are doing online
Children in the early years are using digital devices more. According to the 2024 Ofcom report 85% of children aged 3 to 4 are using apps like YouTube.
Research shows that children are watching video-on-demand content on video-sharing platforms rather than television, such as cartoons, mini movies and songs. However, unlike older children, only a small number of children aged 3 to 4 (23%) play games online.
Access technology safely
You can support children’s use of technology in your setting by:
informing parents and carers and early years staff members on how you support children’s use of technology in your setting (you could combine this with safeguarding policies)
using device safety settings to ensure apps and content are age-appropriate
not allowing children to access or use screens alone or with other children without adult co-engagement
thinking about what you post online and how this may impact your role or children in your care (for example, you do not share details about children, parents or other practitioners and you should adhere to any social media policies which cover staff personal use of social media platforms)
getting parental consent before creating or sharing images of children and store them safely
Using devices in your setting
If you decide to use electronic devices in your setting, they should be used as a tool to support children’s learning and development. Sedentary screen time should be avoided. You should always closely supervise children when using electronic devices.
These websites and apps have educational content appropriate for early years children:
- CBeebies Little Learners app: Free games and video activities
- Teach Your Monster: Free games to teach children reading, number skills and adventurous eating
- Cosmic Kids Yoga: Free yoga videos for children, turning screen time into physical activity
Teach and share internet safety guidelines
Talk to parents and carers, and young children in your care about internet safety. You can:
help young children understand what safe use of technology looks like
have conversations and share advice with parents and carers to encourage safe online use in the home
stay up to date with issues that young children face online through online safety training
keep up to date with news and research on internet safety
Further reading
Safeguarding children and protecting professionals in early years settings: online safety guidance for practitioners: UK Council for Internet Safety.
Internet safety checklist for pre-school children: Internet Matters.
Online Safety in the Early Years: London Grid for Learning (LGFL).