Advice for parents and carers

Smart TVs

How to start a conversation with your child about using Smart TVs safely:

Why do you want to get a smart TV?

If you already have a smart TV within your house, then why not ask what they like about using the TV.

What do your friends like to watch on smart TVs?

You can ask your child about what shows their friends like to watch and what apps they like to use on the smart TV. You can also ask the if they have used a smart TV whilst visiting friends.

What is your favourite thing to do or watch on the TV? What can we do as a family to help you use the TV safely?

Ask your child about activities or shows that you could enjoy as a family, this can be a great time to establish a family agreement to manage your families time online.

Are there things you use the TV for apart from watching videos or TV programmes?

Find out more about their favourite apps and streaming services, ask about their recommendations for shows or things to do on your smart TV.

What would you do if something worrying or upsetting happened on the TV?

You can ask them about the places they can go to find the safety advice, find out what they know about privacy settings, and ask them how to report on the services they use. It is important to reiterate that your child can always come and talk to you if something worries them on any device they are using.

3 tips to take away:

Talk with your child about responsible use of their smart TV

Discuss what is okay and not okay to use their TV for. Talk about time limits and expectations of when the device can and cannot be used, this could include things like the TV being used with other members of the family or only watching shows that are age appropriate.

Think about the location of the TV

Will it be used in a shared family space or in a bedroom? Think about: setting time limits; restricting inappropriate content; and encouraging them to come to you with any worries.

Explore parental controls

Take a look at the controls available both on the TV itself and on your home Wi-Fi. Talk these through with your child too. Parental controls are a helpful tool, but an open conversation with your child is the most important thing.

FAQs about smart Tvs

Related resources and advice