OpenZone at The Word

AI chatbots are increasingly part of children’s digital lives, with tools such as ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini and My AI being used for questions, ideas, homework support and content generation.

While these tools can create opportunities for learning and creativity, they also introduce important safeguarding, wellbeing and learning considerations.

Our latest guide supports parents, carers and educators in understanding how AI chatbots work and how to help young people use them responsibly.

The guide explores:
• Inaccurate information and the need for critical evaluation
• Inappropriate content and age-related concerns
• Academic dishonesty and over-reliance
• Emotional dependency and blurred boundaries
• Data privacy risks and safe use of settings

With clear, practical advice, this resource helps adults support safe, balanced and informed AI use.

Access the guide: https://vist.ly/5dm5c

Gaming is a huge part of many young people's lives, but some online features can blur the line between gaming and gambling in ways that aren't always obvious.

Our latest guide explains what skin betting is, why it's becoming more common, and how parents, carers and educators can help children stay safe online.

The guide covers:

• What skin betting is and how it works
• Why virtual in-game items can have real-world value
• The risks of unregulated third-party platforms
• Social pressure and influencer promotion
• Warning signs to look out for
• Practical steps to reduce the risks through conversations and parental controls

By understanding how skin betting works, trusted adults can spot potential risks early and help young people make safer choices online.

Read the guide here: https://vist.ly/5b9j8

🏫 The Department for Education has long advised schools to implement restrictions on mobile device use. 📵

Just 2 weeks to go until the begins!

Discover amazing books, collect rewards, and celebrate the power of reading all summer long.

From Saturday 4 July - Saturday 12 September, children can sign up at their local library or online.

Illustrations © Harry Woodgate 2026. Read to the Beat © The Reading Agency 2026, registered charity number 1085443 England and Wales.

More at www.southtyneside.gov.uk/summerreadingchallenge

Huge well done to Stanhope Primary. Golden Pineapple 🍍 winners in Ks1 and 2!

Sports betting has become increasingly visible online, appearing across apps, websites, social media, sports coverage and gaming spaces.

Even when young people are not legally old enough to gamble, they may still encounter betting messages through adverts, influencers, tipsters, friends or adult accounts.

Our latest guide highlights key risks, including:
• Easy online access
• Gambling becoming normalised around sport
• Peer and influencer pressure
• Free bet offers
• Impulsive spending and chasing losses

It also offers practical advice for parents, carers and educators on starting calm conversations, setting safer digital boundaries, spotting warning signs and finding support.

Download the guide here: https://vist.ly/577v8

Minecraft continues to be a highly popular platform for children, combining creativity, problem-solving and social interaction.

While the game can offer positive opportunities for learning and play, features such as public servers, multiplayer modes and in-game communication can create safeguarding challenges.

Our latest guide supports educators and parents in understanding these risks and helping children play more safely.

The guide explores:
• Public server communication and contact with unknown players
• Griefing, disruptive behaviour and online conflict
• In-game spending and subscription costs
• Addictive gameplay loops and balanced screen time
• Safer settings, private servers and suitable game modes

With clear, practical advice, the guide helps adults set boundaries, encourage safer choices and support responsible Minecraft use.

Access the guide: https://vist.ly/54tfx