After a long term at school, many children want to be able to relax, have fun and meet their friends via the computer. At the same time, it is easy for parents to become worried when reading about the dangers that occur in the gaming world.
LONDON/STOCKHOLM, 8 July 2025 - As the summer holidays begin in the Northern Hemisphere, children and young people can spend more time in front of screens, especially in gaming, and adults need to be aware of the risks, said Save the Children.
After a long term at school, many children want to be able to relax, have fun and meet their friends via the computer. At the same time, it is easy for parents to become worried when reading about the dangers that occur in the gaming world.
“As an adult, you do not need to be an expert in gaming. The important thing is to be curious, present and ready to act when there is concern,” said Theo Toresson, a psychologist at Save the Children who himself has extensive experience in the gaming world.
Parents and other adults can make a big difference by talking about integrity, safety and what to do if something feels wrong. It is also about building trust so that the child dares to tell you if something happens that does not feel good.
“Showing interest in children’s digital lives is just as important as knowing who they hang out with in real life. It’s not about control, it’s about security,” said Toresson.
“For most children, there is no harm in spending more hours by the screens during the holidays. But you need to add some physical activity as well.”
For many, it is an important part of their social life, but it can also involve risks. Save the Children's psychologist Theo Toresson gives parents five tips on how they can give children a safe life online this summer:
- Be curious – Ask what games your child plays and why they like them. Ask to watch or play together.
- Create accounts yourself – Test apps and games to understand how they work and what your child encounters.
- Talk about risks – Discuss what’s okay to share, how to handle unpleasant contacts and to save evidence if something has happened.
- Keep an eye on settings – Use parental controls and safety settings in apps like TikTok and Instagram.
- To reduce screen time - It’s a good idea to plan something to do together in the morning outside of the home. If possible, leave your phones behind.
As a global leader in child protection and children participation, Save the Children is committed to working with and for children ensure they are safe on and offline.
