Parents in North Yorkshire urged to make sure new gadgets for Christmas are safe
We're being encouraged to do safety checks on their children's devices today (Christmas Eve)
Last updated 24th Dec 2024
As it's nearly the big day, a children's safeguarding charity in North Yorkshire is encouraging parents and carers to put safety checks on devices today.
The advice from the NSPCC comes so children can enjoy their new gadgets for Christmas tomorrow, without taking away the phone of setting up the parental controls.
Gail Sayles is the local Campaigns Manager in North Yorkshire.
She said:
"My husband and I when we were buying Xbox or PlayStation for our children when they were younger, rather than leaving it to the big day itself, because it takes away all the fun.
"Open it up, have a look, get it all set up, put the settings in place all the safe guards in place and put it back in the box and job done."
According to the NSPCC's website, it mentions the risks of game consoles. It states 'there's a risk of them seeing something inappropriate.
'The game might not be suitable for your child's age and ability, or they might be worried by a comment or message from another user. Your child may also be talking to people while playing – this could be someone they don’t know.'
Referencing the risks of mobile phones, it also states:
'There are many features including easy access to web browser and lots of different apps where your child could see inappropriate content.
'Having their own device also means they're able to chat or message independently, and people they don’t know will be able to contact them.'
Gail also had this advice:
"It's about having these regular conversations at an early age. We know that 21% of 3-4 year-olds now-a-days have their own mobile phone.
"So whilst your child may not have all the tech, their peers may very well and they talk to each other."