Discussing internet issues with grandchildren

I think three vitally important message that children of all ages need to have drummed into them, despite their own feelings of infallibility are

The internet (and social media) NEVER FORGETS
and
The internet (and social media) IS FOREVER
and
The second you have shared an image, you have totally lost control of it.

I work in Children's Services, and every single day, we get at least one referral relating to inappropriate images that have been shared. It is heartbreaking to feel that this is how our children feel they have to behave. These are not even children who are being groomed. They are between peers. Children as young as 10. TEN!

It is also maybe worth pointing out, that sharing intimate photographs with friends is the same as distributing child pornography.

That's really shocking, and so disappointing.. I'm at a loss for what to say. Except TEN!?

Thanks for the voice of experience comments HurdyGurdy. Australian ABC news (our BBC) had a report just a few days ago about the legal minefield being created by minors involved with "sexting" and where it intersects with legislation relating to pornography and child exploitation. (Sexting is exchanging intimate photos with girlfriends, boyfriends or others.)

The report also emphasized the importance of minors understanding the total loss of control of an image once it is posted online or sent to a friend. I would guess that similar issues are being encountered in the UK legal system and schools. The report referred to an app called Out of Bounds developed by the Law Society and also urges the awareness and involvement of parents and other carers (grans) in educating and protecting our young ones.

The link is:
www.abc.net.au/news/2017-11-18/why-sexting-is-creating-a-legal-minefield-in-our-courts/9162826

Not naming your GC on Facebook is very wise. I do not put their photos there either. So far my GSons have not talked about intimate matters with me, but it would be no problem. I would tell their parents they had asked/spoken about it, and I would ask the boys to talk to mum and dad. As a previous teacher who taught all this to 10 and 11 year olds, I'm lucky to have a bit of a head start. Never under-estimate the high emotions that go with relationships and the worry about what others think of me at this age. I always tell boys about periods, in a separate group from the girls, but tell the girls in their separate group that I will be teaching the boys this. I emphasise to the boys that for the girls the onset isn't much fun usually, and not to tease or not embarrass them with questions but to be kind and remember it might give them tummy ache or headaches even. I found the boys to be amazingly kind and compassionate about this.

Brilliant wise words Hurdy Gurdy! Thanks. I'm taking them with me to be ready in case....