Video Guides for Parents

These video guides for parents help families discuss body boundaries, online privacy and getting help. Watch with the child, choose material that suits their age and use the accompanying written resources. Preview each resource first, because topics involving sexual abuse may require particular care.

Table of contents

Video guides for parents and children

How to use these video guides for parents

First, choose a quiet time and explain the topic in simple language. Then, pause when the child has questions and allow them to stop. These resources support conversations, but they do not replace safeguarding advice or professional support.

  • Watch the resource yourself before showing it to a child.
  • Explain that children can tell a trusted adult about uncomfortable behaviour.
  • Use the written booklet to revisit the message without needing to replay the video.
  • Avoid asking a child to disclose personal experiences in front of a group.
  • Adapt the language, pace and format for additional communication needs.

Why it matters: Understanding and reassurance matter more than completing a video. No child is responsible for preventing another person’s abuse.

Kiko and the hand

This Council of Europe resource helps younger children learn about body boundaries and speaking to a trusted adult. Its message can support family conversations about inappropriate touch and secrets. Therefore, use the story alongside the video rather than treating it as a test.

In addition, discuss who the child could approach if something feels wrong. Include another trusted adult in case the child cannot talk to a parent at that moment. Make clear that seeking help will not get them into trouble.

Use the Kiko and the hand booklet for a written version. The Council of Europe’s child resources provide the original educational context and further material.

Kiko and the Manymes

This resource introduces camera, screen and image safety for families with children aged approximately four to seven. It helps adults discuss privacy and why a child can seek support about photographs or online contact. The Council of Europe’s explanation describes its intended audience.

For example, connect the message to devices the child actually uses, including a tablet, game or video call. Explain that agreeing to one photograph does not mean agreeing to every use of it. Parents should also respect the child’s wishes when sharing family images.

Read the Kiko and the Manymes booklet together. Our Children and Online Privacy guide adds practical family privacy advice.

Tell someone you trust

The Council of Europe describes this video as a resource for children aged nine to thirteen. It addresses sexual violence within the circle of trust and encourages children to speak out. Preview it before use and consider the individual child’s needs.

Afterwards, ask what the characters could do to get help rather than asking whether the child has experienced abuse. Explain that a trusted adult must listen and take concerns seriously. If the first adult does not help, the child can keep telling another trusted adult.

Use the Tell someone you trust booklet to revisit the key messages. Allow the child to ask questions privately after the discussion.

So this is sexual abuse

This resource supports conversations about sexual abuse, exploitation and children’s rights. Its accompanying guide gives families a written resource to discuss with a trusted adult. Preview the content and decide whether it is appropriate for the particular child and situation.

In addition, sexual pressure and exploitation can occur online as well as in person. Therefore, explain that requests for images, secrecy or sexual conversations can also require help. A child can seek support even if they initially agreed to something or feel embarrassed.

The So this is sexual abuse guide provides further written information. For current reporting routes, use the support section below.

Video guides for parents and AI conversations

These older resources remain useful for boundaries and help seeking, but they do not cover every new technology. Therefore, add a conversation about chatbots, deepfakes and sharing images. A deepfake can falsely show a real person in an altered or generated image or recording.

Webwise AI Aware provides additional family learning about generative AI. Discuss keeping personal details out of unnecessary AI uploads and seeking human support for worries. Our Digital Footprint guide explains how information can travel beyond its original audience.

  • Ask who might receive a photograph or recording.
  • Explain that other people need permission before sharing someone’s image.
  • Discuss how an AI character can seem friendly without being a human friend.
  • Make clear that fake intimate images can still cause real harm.
  • Encourage help seeking rather than blaming the person targeted.

Accessible video guides for parents

In addition, the linked booklets offer a written way to explore these topics. Check the video player’s caption options before viewing, because availability can differ by resource. Do not assume every embedded video has a transcript or suitable captions.

For example, work through a small part of the booklet at a time when a child needs a simpler explanation. Schools should provide an accessible alternative where a video does not meet a pupil’s needs. Avoid relying on audio alone for essential safety messages.

Video guides for parents: getting help

Listen calmly and reassure the child that telling you was the right action. Avoid leading questions, promises of secrecy or confronting a suspected offender. Record the child’s words accurately and seek the appropriate safeguarding support.

For immediate danger, call 112 or 999. Use Garda reporting information for suspected crime and Tusla’s reporting guidance for child protection and welfare concerns.

Childline offers free phone and online support for young people. Use Hotline.ie for suspected illegal online content, including child sexual abuse material. Do not download or circulate sexual images of children.

Related CODA Guides

Continue with Protecting Personal Information Online and The Dangers of Social Media for current advice. Our Resources for Parents and Useful Links provide settings, reporting and additional support.

References

About Children of the Digital Age

Children of the Digital Age provides online safety education and training for families, schools and organisations. Our work brings together practical safety guidance, cybersecurity and cyberpsychology. For education and training enquiries, visit Contact Us.

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    Last updated: 14 October 2026