CHILDREN are growing up in a time where screens are everywhere and the internet plays a big part in their lives, even from a young age.

Technology can be beneficial; young people can learn new things, connect with friends, family members and have fun. But the internet can also be a place where they are open to serious risk.

We understand that talking about online safety can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. To help with conversations on online safety we've created a new character, Techosaurus, to make discussions as easy as possible for you and your child. The orange dinosaur helps little ones who are starting to use technology and the internet, keeping the conversation around online safety positive. Techosaurus will help your child to form healthy online habits, routines and behaviours from a young age, and build basic knowledge and skills related to online safety.

Talking regularly with your child can help keep them safe online. Having this conversation prepares your child from an early age, so they can safely explore the internet and know who to speak to if things go wrong. Our Childline counsellors hear every day from children who've had upsetting experiences online. A 12-year-old girl said: “My friend sent me a link to a website about a celebrity who killed themselves and I can’t stop thinking about it. The site was making jokes about suicide and showed videos of it. I know I shouldn’t have watched it and now it’s making me have horrible thoughts all the time. I tried to talk to my parents, but they just tell me to stay off my phone. I feel like a mess just from seeing this stuff.”

Talking regularly with children about these important safety messages can make a big difference. Try making it part of a daily conversation. This can help your child feel relaxed and if they do have any worries about online safety, they’re more likely to talk to you about it.

To get the conversation started, Techosaurus introduces four key messages to share with your child. Each offers simple, practical advice to help keep your child safe online. Firstly, play and be kind online. The internet can be fun, and Techosaurus finds lots of games to enjoy. But it’s important to be kind while playing, letting everyone else have fun too! Secondly, protect your personal information online. Important information can get shared over the internet, such as date of birth and address, it’s important to keep this private and only share it with a safe adult you trust. Third, ask an adult you trust before trying something new online. Lastly, tell someone if anything has made you feel upset. It’s good to talk to a safe adult about anything that makes you sad, worried, or confused.

Families can order our Techosaurus activity pack for a suggested donation of £6 to help cover the cost of designing, printing and delivering packs. Visit nspcc.org.uk