Sarahah

Exploring apps, sites and games together is a great way to involve your child in the decision-making process.

Be positive about what you see, but also be open about your concerns. Ask them what they think is appropriate and what worries them.

If you decide it’s not appropriate, then make sure you explain your reasons why (and be prepared for an unhappy child).

You might decide it’s ok for your child to use. If so, make sure you follow the tips below to ensure it’s as safe as possible. And work out a time when you’ll next discuss the app.

Help your child think about what they share online and who sees it. Compare it to what they would be happy to share offline.

You might want to start by asking:

• What kinds of things do you share online?
• Should we share everything?
• What shouldn’t we share?

Use examples that are easy for them to understand: “You wouldn’t give your number to somebody you don't know on the street. Is somebody online you don't know any different?”

Listen to their answers. And be positive and encouraging.

Remind them that they shouldn’t share private things, such as:

• personal information, like emails, names, phone numbers, school names
• photos of themselves with strangers
• photos of your body, such as sexual photos or videos
• gossip

Explain that you understand the internet is a great place to play, create, learn and connect. But remind them they can talk to you if anything upsets or worries them.

Reassure them that you won’t overreact – you’re just looking out for them.

And if they feel like they can’t speak to you, tell them to talk to an adult they trust, like a teacher or Childline.

Sahara used to be recommended for children aged 13+  but it’s since changed to 17+. This means the website and app aren’t appropriate for most young people. 

You know your child better than anyone, but we recommend thinking carefully about why your child would be on there and speaking to them about it.  

Your child might receive upsetting or negative things from other users on Sarahah. If this happens, they might want to report or block them. 

You can report messages you’ve received on Sarahah by clicking on the three buttons at the top of a message and selecting ‘report’. 

You can block another user by clicking on the three buttons at the top of a message and selecting ‘block sender’. 

And remember to let your child know that they can always talk to you about worrying things they see online. 

With your child, explore the privacy setting and make sure ‘appear in search’ and ‘close inbox’ are turned off. That way only people they know should be able to find and talk to them.  

And revisit the privacy settings often to make sure you’re happy with them.