NJS Online Safety Newsletter July 2025

Dear Parents and Carers,

Attached is the last NJS Online Safety newsletter for this academic year. This month’s edition includes safety information and advice about the following topics:

Nintendo Switch 2 & GameChat
- New GameChat feature allows voice, screen sharing, and video chat (with camera accessory). Up to 12 users can chat while gaming. Parents should ensure children know how to report inappropriate behavior. See link for more on GameChat.
Parental Controls for Nintendo Switch
- There is a free app available to monitor playtime, restrict games by age rating, and manage GameChat access. Children under 15 need parental approval to use GameChat. See link to set up parental controls.
PEGI Age Ratings
- PEGI rates games based on age suitability, not difficulty. It does not cover user-generated content or in-game chat. PEGI info – see link
ZEPETO App
- Social avatar app for ages 13+ with chat and room design features.
  Risks: exposure to inappropriate content, online bullying, and in-app purchases.
  No parental controls, but privacy settings can be adjusted.
  ZEPETO Guardian’s Guide – see link
Sprunki Game
- Multiple versions exist; some contain explicit violence and disturbing content.
  Always check the version and its content warnings. See link for Sprunki safety info
Online Challenges
- 68% of children watch prank/challenge videos.
- Some challenges are dangerous and have led to harm.
- Talk to your child about risks and encourage open communication.
- Guide for parents
Omegle & Similar Sites
- Omegle is gone, but Ome.tv and similar platforms remain. These are not safe for children due to explicit content and random video chats. See link for more on chat apps
Conversation Starter
- Scenario-based discussion: What should a child do if they see bullying in a group chat?
- Encourage kindness, speaking up, and telling a trusted adult.
Transition to Secondary School
- Resources available to support children moving to secondary school. See link for Transition guide