Helping neurodiverse children stay safe and confident online
77% of UK children aged 9 to 17 experienced online harm in 2025.
Neurodiverse children are often the most vulnerable. However, the internet offers access to skills and communities that feel more manageable than real life.
Our goal is to build safety and confidence through informed support. We can foster online safety for neurodiverse children through skill-building and risk awareness.
Online risks for neurodiverse children
Neurodiverse experiences are mirrored on screen and sometimes amplified. There are fewer cues to help children interpret tone and intent.
Literal thinking and misinterpreting cues can make it difficult to spot manipulation or sarcasm. ADHD can cause impulsivity and hyperfixation, leading to risky behaviours and excessive screen time.
Peers can be just as harmful as strangers. We all know children are capable of cruelty when they think they won’t get caught. Sadly, children with SEND are the likeliest targets. Many neurodivergent children also struggle with articulation, making it difficult for them to communicate if something does go wrong.
Online platforms are also designed to be addictive, appealing to sensory needs and dopamine-driven responses. This addiction is likely to follow children into adulthood, where neurodiverse individuals are common victims of criminal and defiant behaviour.
Proactive support has never been more important.
Staying informed and involved as adults
Keeping neurodiverse children safe online starts with the grown-ups staying informed.
Digital spaces evolve quickly. Children are often using platforms that most adults have never heard of. Do you remember trying to understand the concept of Snapchat?
Adults need to understand the platforms children are flocking to. This involves setting parental controls and researching platforms before use.
The UK Safer Internet Centre provides extensive information for all areas of online safety. They’ve also created videos specifically for protecting children with SEND, and there are apps you can install to manage and filter interactions and activity.
When adults understand the digital landscape, it’s easier to prepare children for online independence. Educating ourselves protects them.
Teaching neurodivergent children online safety
Structured support is crucial for online safety.
Start with an open and honest conversation to establish trust. Clear, age-appropriate explanations help children understand why online boundaries exist.
Collaborate to create agreed routines surrounding screen time and when devices are used. Repeating key messages is important, such as not sharing personal information and blocking and reporting strange interactions.
Neurodivergent children in particular need reassurance. If something feels weird and uncomfortable, they should feel empowered to speak to a trusted adult without getting into trouble. This can prevent small issues from escalating.
Games and online communities can support learning, communication and skill-building when used safely. This support helps children enjoy the benefits of being online, with the confidence to recognise danger.
Creating online safety together
For neurodiverse children, online safety works best when adults stay informed and aware.
Independence online requires knowing the risks, understanding the rules and trusting that help is always available.
By sharing our guidance and sparking regular conversations, we can work together to keep children safe online.
For more resources, explore the links below.
While we discourage the use of social media for anyone under the age of 16, here are guides for popular social media platforms: