Its increasingly an issue for boys as well as girls,  The Times asks experts what parents can do - 

read the article here 

Childline’s new ‘Behind the Screen’ campaign, seeks to raise awareness of the sexually coerced extortion of boys and young men. 

In particular it seeks to address the extortion of nudes from this group via blackmail, in relation to nudes exchanged and then saved by the extorter. All young people should be able to feel safe to seek support for whatever afflicts them. Childline seeks to provide that service, and to act as a conduit for advice and support. 

The campaign has specifically been designed for boys and young men, to let them know its ok to reach out and that a place for their concerns exists at Childline. In line with this aim, they have produced a supporting guide to accompany their ‘Behind the Screen’ campaign. If interested please follow the link here

It’s common for parents to worry about their children trying smoking, alcohol or drugs as they get older. However, in recent years, more young people have been using e-cigarettes, known as vaping. Children are trying vaping younger than ever and the risks are less well known than with other substances.

If you think your child might be vaping or you’re worried they might start, it’s important to understand what it is and what the risks are so you can talk to them about it. Most children and young people do not vape or smoke on a regular basis over a long period of time, but they might try it. Keeping them informed about the risks, will help them to make healthy choices for themselves.

You’re probably well aware of WhatsApp and its huge user-base. The app has become a go-to for a convenient and easy way to keep in touch on an individual basis as well as in groups.

But are there any possible risks, and how safe is it for children? Here's everything you need to know. 

Breck Bednar was a 14-year-old boy from Surrey who, like many boys of his age, loved technology and computer games and spent lots of time 'gaming', often playing against other online 'friends' as part of a wider virtual group.

He played games such as Battlefield and Call of Duty.

Breck came into contact with his murderer, Lewis Daynes, over the internet. Daynes ran an online server through which Breck and his friends played games.