When we speak with parents at our talks to parents associations or at our parent crash courses, exposure to inappropriate content often features in the top three concerns regarding their children spending time online. Yet, when we visit schools, this is often the least explored topic, with many children unsure of what the problem with exposure to in-appropriate content really is. Many do not understand why seeing photos of their favourite celebrity scantily clad or playing a gory and violent video game may not be what is best for them.
For many parents, this is a topic that can be incredibly difficult to get to grips with. It can be particularly daunting, given the wide range and masses of content at your child’s fingertips when they are online. This piece will break it down for you – from what inappropriate content actually means, to how to easily and effectively manage this risk within your home.
Inappropriate content is often used as an umbrella term to cover a range of topics deemed unsuitable for children. But there is no short answer when it comes to what constitutes in-appropriate content, as it depends on the parent, as well as the maturity and age of the child in question.
At Zeeko we would consider the list below to be inappropriate content for most parents and children:
- pornographic material or content depicting nudity
- content containing swearing, inappropriate or offensive language
- content promoting alcohol and drugs
- sites that incite or encourage inappropriate or harmful behaviour such as vandalism, crime, terrorism, racism, eating disorders and even suicide
- pictures, videos or games which contain or promote violence or cruelty to other people or animals
- gambling sites
- unmoderated chatrooms (no one monitoring the conversation, language used or content shared)
This issue for many parents is that there are so many ways (both accidental and intentional) that your child can end up viewing inappropriate content.
Parents have told us that they find the following tips helpful when dealing with inappropriate content:
- Conversation is the key when it comes to inappropriate content – speak to your child early on about the types of inappropriate content that they may come across and explain why it is inappropriate
- Empower your child to recognise potential threats when it comes to inappropriate content
- Equip your child with specific steps to take if they come across inappropriate content (e.g. flip the iPad over face down and speak with their parent about what they have seen)
- Do not openly panic, regardless of what your child tells you – this will cause them to panic, to retreat into themselves or to internalise the topic they were broaching is a taboo subject that should not be discussed
Our Zeeko Internet Safety Guide offers more comprehensive advice and a more detailed exploration of inappropriate content. You can purchase a copy of the Guide here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/zeeko/zeeko-internet-safety-guide
If you would like to know more about our work at Zeeko keep an eye on our social media channels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is meant by inappropriate content on the internet?
Inappropriate content is an umbrella term for online material that may not be suitable for children based on their age or maturity. This can include sexual content, violent imagery, offensive language, promotion of drugs or alcohol, gambling, and content that encourages harmful behaviours.
Why are parents so concerned about inappropriate content?
Many parents worry about inappropriate content because children can encounter it easily and often unintentionally. Exposure can impact a child’s emotional wellbeing, behaviour, and understanding of what is appropriate or acceptable.
Why don’t children always understand why certain content is inappropriate?
Children may not fully understand why certain images, videos, or games are harmful because they lack the emotional maturity or life experience to process them properly. What may seem harmless or entertaining to them can have deeper psychological or developmental effects.
What types of content are generally considered inappropriate for children?
Most parents consider the following to be inappropriate content:
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Pornographic or sexually explicit material
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Swearing or offensive language
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Content promoting drugs, alcohol, or gambling
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Violence or cruelty towards people or animals
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Material encouraging harmful behaviour such as crime, racism, self-harm, or eating disorders
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Unmoderated chatrooms where content and language are not controlled
Can inappropriate content be accessed accidentally?
Yes. Children can come across inappropriate content accidentally through pop-ups, suggested videos, online ads, search results, or links shared by friends, even when they are not actively looking for it.
Is it possible to completely block inappropriate content?
While filters and parental controls help reduce risk, no system is 100% foolproof. This is why open communication and education are just as important as technical controls.
How can parents talk to children about inappropriate content?
Start conversations early and keep them age-appropriate. Explain what inappropriate content is and why it may be harmful, and encourage children to ask questions without fear of getting into trouble.
What should a child do if they come across inappropriate content?
Children should be encouraged to:
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Stop viewing the content immediately
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Turn the device face down or close the screen
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Speak to a parent or trusted adult as soon as possible
Giving children clear steps helps them feel confident and supported.
Why is staying calm important when a child reports inappropriate content?
Reacting calmly helps children feel safe and reassured. Panicking or overreacting may cause children to hide future experiences or feel that the topic is taboo.
How can parents empower children to recognise inappropriate content?
Parents can empower children by teaching them to trust their instincts, recognise warning signs, and understand that it’s okay to step away from content that makes them uncomfortable.
Should parents monitor what their child does online?
Yes. Active involvement, regular check-ins, and age-appropriate supervision help parents understand what their child is exposed to and provide guidance when needed.
Where can parents find more guidance on dealing with inappropriate content?
Zeeko’s Internet Safety Guide offers in-depth advice on managing inappropriate content and other online risks, helping parents create a safer digital environment at home.
Explore Zeeko’s Home Page to discover our mission on the About Us Page, innovative Phone Blocking System, and engaging Phoenix Quest 10 programme. We provide Internet Safety Seminars, the Zeeko Report Card, and the Magical Leaders Choose Country initiative, alongside insights from our Digital Trend Report. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
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