Digital Parenting
Supporting your child's safe start online
Internet access should always come with strong safety measures. That’s why we offer step-by-step guides on setting up parental controls, available on our website and through our partner, the ISPCC. Our in-store teams are also happy to help. For added peace of mind, our SecureNet service lets you limit screen time and block specific sites or apps.
We fully support parents’ choices about when and how their child uses a device. This includes school-led agreements to delay access to social media and restrict phone use during class time.
We’re also helping young people build digital confidence. The Vodafone Foundation has invested over €2 million in Tozi, a free app developed by DCU’s Anti-Bullying Centre to support online wellbeing for 11–14 year olds.
Read our Digital Parenting Guide [PDF, 6.5MB] to help you have informed conversations with your family about staying safe online.
Five steps to help parents get online ready
Keep informed
Staying up to date about popular online trends can help you understand your children's online activity.
Built trust
Creating an open environment can encourage your children to share any concerns with.
Being aware
Help your child to develop crucial online perception skills by teaching them to think critically.
Using tools
Using safety features can help protect children online. Get to know what tools are available, what they do, and how to use them.
Stay alert
Being on the lookout for changes in behaviour can help you notice if your child is having negative experiences online.
Stay connected with one monthly bill
Keep the whole family connected with our best value family package, RED Family.
Add up to 6 family members to one monthly bill, meaning no more top ups.
Pay as you go phones and plans
Setting up a new phone number
You may have an old phone that you want to pass on to your child. For this, you simply need to buy a new SIM only plan for this phone.
Buying a new phone
Pay as you go is an affordable option when looking at first phones. These let you set up a new phone number or use an existing number for the phone.
Keep your child supported against cyberbullying
Tozi is a cyberbullying mobile app for 11 to 14 year olds, developed by Vodafone Foundation, DCU Anti-Bullying Centre, and ISPCC.
It offers educational content, such as quizzes, articles, and videos as well as tools for self-awareness including mood tracking and journalling.
Tozi also has a support feature connecting users to Childline if needed.
Resources for you
Digital Parenting Guide
Have a look at our 5-step guide to help you have informed conversations with your family about staying safe online.
Google Family Link
Create healthy and positive digital habits with easy-to-use tools, helping you understand how your child is spending time online.
ISPCC Parenting hub
Find helpful tips for parents that cover various topics in blog posts including mental health, home life, and online safety.
Parentline
Free, confidential, and non-judgmental guidance and support. This service is for but not limited to parents, guardians, and teachers.