Please find the National College guide for ‘What Parents and Educators Need to Know about Tracking Devices’ below.

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Tracking devices like AirTags and SmartTags were designed to help people find lost belongings, but they’ve also opened the door to worrying forms of misuse. Their compact size and subtle design make them easy to hide, which can lead to the unwanted tracking of people without their knowledge. From stalking and bullying to potential misuse by peers, these gadgets bring a range of risks that trusted adults must stay aware of.

This guide examines the growing popularity of Bluetooth trackers, the most common ways they’re being misused, and how to spot signs that a child may be affected. With practical tips on detecting hidden devices, using the right apps, and starting important conversations, it’s a vital read for parents, carers and educators looking to stay ahead of a fast-moving issue.

Please find the National College guide for ‘What Parents & Educators Need to Know about AI-Generated Videos’ below.

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AI can now generate realistic looking videos that are almost impossible to distinguish from genuine content. From hoax news to abusive deepfakes, these synthetic clips can mislead, manipulate and even harm. As AI tools become more advanced, and more accessible, young people are increasingly at risk of encountering fake but convincing footage online. This guide unpacks the dangers of AI-generated videos, from the emotional impact of fake distressing content to the potential for impersonation and bullying. With practical tips to help young users spot deepfakes and navigate online spaces with confidence, this guide is an essential read for parents and educators navigating this rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Please find the National College guide for ‘What Parents & Educators Need to Know about Pokémon TCG Pocket’ below.

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Pokémon TCG Pocket has brought the world-famous trading card game onto smartphones – and with over 100 million downloads, it’s already captured the attention of countless fans. The app combines quick-fire card battles, collectible decks, and the thrill of opening booster packs. For many children, it’s a blend of strategy, fun, and Pokémon nostalgia that’s hard to resist.

Beneath the colourful exterior, there are risks that parents and educators should know about. In-game purchases, monthly passes, and limited-time expansions encourage ongoing spending, while the competitive online play may lead to frustration, over-investment, and extended screen time. This guide helps adults understand these hidden challenges.

Please find the National College guide for ‘What Parents & Educators Need to Know about Memes’ below.

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Memes are everywhere – quick, witty, and wildly shareable. For many young people they are more than jokes, they’re a way to connect, express themselves and interpret the world. But behind the humour, there can be risks. This guide helps adults understand how memes work and why they matter to young people today.

From misinformation to insensitive jokes and permanent digital footprints, this guide highlights the potential pitfalls of meme culture. With practical tips on digital literacy, empathy and open conversations, it empowers parents and educators to help children navigate online humour in a thoughtful, safe, and respectful way.

Please find the National College guide for ‘What Parents & Educators Need to Know about EA Sports FC 26’ below.

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With new kits, updated squads and refined gameplay, EA FC 26 brings the thrill of top-tier football to living rooms once again. While it continues to offer family-friendly fun in modes like Kick-Off and Career, the ongoing popularity of Ultimate Team – where players spend money to build fantasy squads – brings a mix of excitement and risks.

Children can encounter issues such as gambling-like mechanics, voice chat with strangers, and potential exposure to scams. This guide breaks down the game’s most important features, highlights the key risks to be aware of, and shares practical advice for helping young players stay safe while gaming and interacting online.

Please find the National College guide for ‘What Parents & Educators Need to Know about Snapchat’ below.

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With over 900 million monthly users, Snapchat continues to be a favourite among children and young people; however, with its ever-evolving features, the risks have evolved too. From AI-generated filters and chatbots, to disappearing messages and the Snap Map location-sharing tool, it’s easy for children to stumble into unsafe territory. This guide breaks down the latest updates, including the Lens+ subscription service, and web browser access.

We’ve also unpacked the risks of sextortion scams, overuse, and inappropriate content that may slip through the app’s moderation systems. With expert advice from online safety consultant Dr Claire Sutherland, this guide is a must-read for anyone helping young people navigate Snapchat responsibly and confidently.

Please find the National College guide for ‘What Parents & Educators Need to Know about Technology Attachment’ below.

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Many young people and children today are deeply attached to their digital devices – often using screens for comfort, connection, and even validation. This attachment can quickly turn into dependency, especially with many apps designed to be habit-forming. Our guide breaks down how and why these connections develop, and the ways in which they might affect children’s behaviour, focus, and emotional resilience.

From disrupted sleep patterns to distorted self-image, the consequences of excessive screen time can be far-reaching. This guide also examines how digital communication may shape friendships and social skills, as well as the hidden risks children and young people face in virtual spaces. With expert insights and practical strategies, it’s a valuable read for anyone supporting children and young people in our digital world.

Please find the National College guide for ‘What Parents & Educators Need to Know about Online Slang’ below.

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Online slang can be a vibrant way for young people to express themselves, but it also changes rapidly and can sometimes carry hidden meanings. This guide helps adults navigate this shifting landscape by breaking down what some of today’s most-used slang terms actually mean and why they matter. From ‘rizz’ to ‘sigma’, it’s a handy starting point for anyone wanting to better understand how young people communicate online.

We’ve created this free guide offering parents and educators information about online slang and the risks involved – from generational misunderstandings to being used as a veil for harmful content or behaviour. Importantly, it offers advice on encouraging open conversations and critical thinking about language. With slang constantly evolving, this guide encourages adults to stay curious, connected and supportive.

Please find the National College guide for ‘What Parents & Educators Need to Know about Group Chats’ below.

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Group chats are a hugely popular way for children to stay in touch with their friends, whether via messaging apps, social platforms or games. These online groups can help them feel connected, strengthen relationships and encourage creativity – but they also come with certain risks.

From teasing and exclusion to privacy worries and inappropriate content, children can experience a wide range of challenges in group chats. This guide helps parents and educators recognise the signs of trouble and offers simple ways to support children in using group chats safely and respectfully.