It’s never too early to start talking about online safety

As a parent or carer, you can help keep your child safe and ensure they get the most out of being online — even before they start school.

Why is online safety important for under 5s?

Young children watch, learn and copy from a very early age. Digital devices are part of daily family life, so it helps to model good habits and talk early about safe, kind and balanced use.

What are the risks?

• Talking or playing with strangers online; sharing personal information such as name, age or location.

• Others being unkind or disrespectful; bullying; building a “digital footprint” they later wish was private.

• Poor-quality or age-inappropriate content (including violent or sexual content).

Practical tips to use with under 5s

Children copy what they see. Be mindful of your own device use, especially during family time.

• Agree simple rules for when and where devices can be used and when to ask an adult for help.
• Check privacy settings together on apps and services your family uses.

Narrate what you do online, ask questions and encourage your child to tell you what they like and don’t like. Keep early conversations short, friendly and frequent.

Four simple messages for Early Years

• Be safe — who it’s OK to talk to and what information should stay private.
• Be kind — model respectful behaviour online and off.
• Ask for help — come to a trusted adult if something feels wrong or confusing.
• Make good choices — think about what to watch, play and share; take breaks for balance.

This material has been adapted with permission from the Australian Government eSafety Commissioner . Permission to adapt content does not constitute endorsement of material by the eSafety Commissioner.