Safer Internet Day 2026 takes place on Tuesday 10 February.
This year’s theme is:
“Smart tech, safe choices – exploring the safe and responsible use of AI.”
What will children be learning in school?
During the week of Safer Internet Day, children across school will take part in assemblies and age-appropriate lessons focused on staying safe online.
Alongside familiar messages about scams and online trust, there will be a particular focus this year on artificial intelligence (AI) – technology that is increasingly part of children’s everyday digital lives.
This learning builds on our wider approach to online safety and digital citizenship, which is revisited regularly through PSHE, computing and safeguarding work across the year.
AI can be helpful and interesting, and many children already encounter it through games, apps and devices. At the same time, AI tools do not always give accurate information and are often designed for older users. Our focus is on helping children use technology thoughtfully, safely and always with the support of trusted adults.
You can find national guidance, activities and videos for families here:
👉 UK Safer Internet Centre – Safer Internet Day 2026
BBC Teach are also offering free live and on-demand lessons linked to this year’s theme:
👉 BBC Teach – Safer Internet Day 2026
What children will be learning in school
Across different year groups, children will be supported to understand that:
- AI technologies are tools created by people, not humans themselves
- Not everything generated by technology is true, accurate or appropriate
- Personal information should always be kept private
- It is important to stop, think and ask for help if something online feels confusing or worrying
Assemblies and lessons will reinforce clear, simple messages about making safe choices, checking information, and involving trusted adults.
If something online worries your child: Stop – Save – Report
- Stop using the device or app straight away
- Save what you can (for example, ask an adult to take a screenshot)
- Report it to a trusted adult, and use in-app reporting tools where available
This is the same simple routine we will be practising in school, so children hear one consistent message at home and at school.
Top tips for parents and carers of children aged 3–7
Children in this age group are usually online with adult support. This is a great time to build positive habits.
- Enjoy going online together
Shared screen time allows you to guide choices, talk about what is happening, and notice anything that feels unclear or inappropriate. - Talk regularly about online experiences
Help your child put words to what they see and hear online. Simple conversations now make it more likely they will speak up later if something worries them. - Use device settings and parental controls
Check app permissions, disable in-app purchases where possible, and avoid saving payment details on devices children can access. - Explain that technology can get things wrong
Talk about the difference between real and make-believe. Help children understand that some things online are guesses, stories or mistakes. - Reassure them they can always come to you
Children should know they will be listened to calmly and supported if something online feels upsetting or confusing.
Top tips for children aged 7–11 (and their families)
As children become more independent online, they still need clear guidance and regular reminders.
- Be alert to things that don’t feel right
Messages, games or offers that seem too good to be true often are. Unexpected requests for information, passwords or money should always raise questions. - Use strong passwords
Passwords should be hard to guess and never shared. A mix of words, numbers and symbols works well. - Think carefully about personal information
Names, addresses, school details, passwords and photos should never be shared online without checking with a trusted adult first. - Be cautious when chatting or gaming online
Not everyone online is who they say they are. Keep chats on safe topics and avoid moving conversations to private apps or platforms. - If someone asks you to move a chat to a different app or keep a secret, that’s a sign to stop and tell an adult.
- Ask before buying or downloading
Children should always check with a trusted adult before making purchases or installing new apps or tools, including AI-based ones. - Remember: being targeted is never your child’s fault
Encourage children to speak to an adult if something goes wrong online. Asking for help is the right thing to do.
A shared responsibility
Technology is changing quickly, and no one expects children – or parents – to have all the answers. Safer Internet Day is about starting conversations, not finishing them.
By working together, we can help children enjoy the benefits of the online world while staying safe, confident and supported.
We encourage families to use Safer Internet Day as a starting point for regular, open conversations at home about online life, questions and worries. The UK Safer Internet Centre offers excellent, practical guidance for families of all ages.
