Setting Up for Success: Digital Resolutions for the New Year
The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect on our digital habits and make positive changes for our families. As technology continues to play an important role in our lives, ensuring our children use it safely and responsibly is essential. Below, we’ve outlined some simple steps parents can take to set up for success this year, along with links to trusted resources for further guidance.
- Creating Strong Passwords
Teaching your children the importance of strong passwords is a vital step in protecting their online accounts. Encourage them to use passwords that are:
- At least 12 characters long.
- A mix of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Unique for each account they use.
Consider using a passphrase, such as “RedApple!23IsCool”, which is easier to remember but hard to guess. For younger children, help them set up their accounts and manage passwords securely.
For more tips on creating secure passwords, visit Get Safe Online’s password guide.
- Using Parental Controls
Parental controls are an effective way to monitor and manage what your child accesses online. Most devices, apps, and internet providers offer built-in parental controls to help you:
- Block or filter inappropriate content.
- Set screen time limits.
- Monitor your child’s activity online.
Make it a habit to review and update parental controls regularly, especially when your child starts using a new app, website, or device.
For step-by-step instructions, visit Internet Matters’ parental controls guide.
- Establishing a Family Internet Use Agreement
A family internet use agreement helps set clear expectations about how technology should be used at home. Involve your children in the process to ensure they understand the rules and feel responsible for following them.
Some key points to include:
- When and where devices can be used (e.g., no phones at mealtimes or before bedtime).
- Rules for sharing personal information or photos online.
- Expectations for gaming, social media, and screen time limits.
- Steps to take if they encounter something upsetting online.
By setting these boundaries early, you’ll help your children develop healthy online habits and a strong sense of digital responsibility.
For examples of family internet use agreements, visit Childnet’s family agreement template.
Starting the Year Right
Setting these digital resolutions now will create a safer, more positive online environment for your family in 2025. Small steps, like teaching your child about passwords, using parental controls, and agreeing on internet rules together, can make a big difference.
For more general advice on keeping your family safe online, check out the UK Safer Internet Centre or the NSPCC’s online safety hub.
Let’s make 2025 a safe and successful year for your family online!
Many thanks,
Mr Cummings
