eSafety

At Fox Hollies, we celebrate how technology helps our students learn, connect with friends, and express themselves creatively. Many of our pupils thrive in online spaces, where they feel comfortable communicating and building confidence—especially when face-to-face interactions can be challenging.

While the internet offers wonderful opportunities, we also recognize that children with special needs may face unique risks online. Together, we can guide them to explore safely.

What Are the Key Risks for Young People Online?

Screen time

Too much screen time might make symptoms of ASD and ADHD worse.

Strangers or bullies

Contact with unknown individuals, groomers, or cyberbullies.

Risky behaviour

Feeling “hidden” online might lead to sharing too much or acting impulsively.

Harmful Content

Exposure to upsetting, violent, or misleading information.

Exploitation

Ads, scams, or games that pressure children to spend money or share personal details..

Extremism

Groups or individuals trying to influence vulnerable young people with harmful ideas.

How Can Parents and Carers Help Keep Their Child Safe?

Talk Together

  • Use simple, reassuring language to discuss online safety. For example:

  • “Some people online might pretend to be friends. Let’s check your apps to see who you’re talking to.”

  • Praise your child for sharing their online experiences—whether good or worrying.

Build safe habits

  • Privacy First: Help your child set up strong passwords and adjust privacy settings on apps/games.

  • Turn off location sharing.

  • Family Email: Create a shared email (e.g., “[familyname]@email.com”) for signing up to websites, so you can manage accounts together.

Stay involved

  • Sit with your child occasionally as they play games or chat online. Notice who they interact with and what platforms they use (e.g., Roblox, TikTok, WhatsApp).

  • Use visual aids, social stories, or videos to explain concepts like “fake news” or “stranger danger.”

Block and report

  • Teach your child how to block unwanted messages and report inappropriate behaviour. Practice this together.

  • Enable parental controls on devices and gaming consoles to filter harmful content.

Focus on strengths

  • Many of our students shine online! Celebrate their creativity and social connections while gently reinforcing boundaries.