Ask them throughout the week how they are feeling and whether it’s a pleasant or unpleasant feeling they have. Provide support to your child in learning about their gut instincts. Gut instincts are vital when it comes to being able to be able to establish boundaries around what they will and won’t be open with.

It is crucial to explain to your child what boundaries are essential, such as not sharing personal information, like their address or anything about their environment or familiar nearby places when talking to people online, especially strangers.

Let your child know that not everyone is who they say they are and that while being open and honest is encouraged, there are limits to being open and honest.

Maybe you could ask your child to let you know if a new online friend wants to know personal information about them.

Agree with your child that they will let you know if a new online friend asks specific questions. They could respond that they have to ask their Mum or Dad first.

Guide your child according to how you want them to respond to personal questions and requests that make their tummy feel icky, whether it is in-person or online.

Being open and honest is necessary when it comes to new friends in the playground and significantly different when it comes to new friends they can’t see online.

Talk with your child about how openness in the playground is invaluable. Being accepting and friendly to everyone creates a peaceful, harmonious environment.

Also, talk about how not everyone has their best interests at heart, and some people are not worthy of their trust because they aren’t who they say they are. Get them to ‘see’ it for themselves if you can.

Every character trait relies on balance and moderation. Be honest with your child and make sure they understand without scaring them. I wish you luck!