A new survey from BT has revealed that parents are more comfortable talking to their children about relationships than they are technology.
The BT report indicates that 56% of parents admitted they find it difficult to talk about technology and social media because of a lack of knowledge.
Some 52% of children, aged six to 14, who took part in the survey said they believed they knew more than their parents about the Internet and social media.
More than 50% of parents also admitted they ask their children for advice on new apps and technology.
The research has been published to mark the launch of BT’s Skills for Tomorrow scheme, a programme which offers information and resources about the Internet and technology.
Carolyn Bunting, Chief Executive of online safety group Internet Matters, said: “Conversations about your child’s online world don’t have to be tricky or uncomfortable.
“Speaking to your child from a young age allows you to create an environment where children share their digital experiences, so it’s important parents have the confidence to support their children and navigate any issues they may face.”
Experts urged parents to improve their own digital skills so that they could talk to their children about using such technology and help give them guidance on using it safely.
