📱 Most of us know a bit about emojis, but when it comes to your child’s messaging online, some emojis can have a different meaning. Would you be able to decode the code? 🤔

Netflix’s Adolescence has got people talking all over the country, and rightly so. Teenagers are communicating in different ways online that most adults would miss.

So, what can parents do?

➡️ Be curious, not combative - ask questions, keep the conversation light.
➡️ Decode together - ask them to explain their online world. What influencers do they follow? Don’t assume, ask.
➡️ Create a judgement-free zone - if you’re child feels they will be punished for opening up, they won’t do it. Be there to listen, not lecture.
➡️ Build their offline confidence - make them feel valued and confident in the real world and seek less validation online.

If we have a better understanding of the meaning behind emojis, we can foster better connections with children and young people, and identify any potential risks.

There are a number of websites and charities where you can get more advice and guidance, including:

🔹 NSPCC: https://orlo.uk/mRP9i 
🔹 UK Safer Internet Centre Homepage: https://orlo.uk/qW80z 
🔹 Childline: https://orlo.uk/Ic7Ur 
🔹 CEOP Online Safety Centre: https://orlo.uk/Rpj40 

For more information about staying safe online, visit our website: https://orlo.uk/WwMB8