They will surf the web for entertainment, socializing with friends and doing homework.

But for parents, it often feels like kids are signing up for new games, social media sites, or apps every week, and new ones popping up all the time.

At Childline, we know how important the internet is for children, but we also hear from young people who have negative experiences online.

Whether they’re being bullied on social media, targeted in online games, or contacted by someone they don’t know, we’re here to help.

Online safety is crucial, and it helps for parents and guardians to have the knowledge and confidence to talk to their children about it.

That’s why we’re running free online safety workshops to help give parents and carers in the North East and across the UK the resources to keep children safe.

Sessions are also open to individuals, schools or community groups and delivered virtually, covering topics such as parental controls, grooming and mental health.

So far, 96% of parents who have taken the 30-minute class said they would recommend it to another parent.

The NSPCC website also has a dedicated online Security Center, which is regularly updated with security articles and information on new games, apps, and websites.

If you are a parent or carer, search www.nspcc.org.uk for ‘free online safety group workshops’ to register or find out more.

But the most important thing you can do is talk to your kids regularly about how they spend their time online.

Show interest in their online activities, maybe explore apps and games together to learn more about their security aspects.

This will reassure them that they can come to you if they have a problem and give them the confidence to talk to you about anything that worries them.

For children who want to learn more about online safety, the Childline website – www.childline.org.uk – is available 24/7, and our specially trained volunteers are always on 0800 1111 to help. offer support and advice.