Online life for a child in care

Abstract

For children and young people their online life is as real to them as their real life. This article considers the positives and negatives of online life, why children in care are more vulnerable, and the specific impact for child protection and health. It provides advice and guidance for healthcare professionals working with children. There are useful resources about managing disclosures and safeguarding concerns. We will consider how to incorporate online life in a paediatric medical history and the impacts of online use on physical and emotional health.