BBC Own It App for Children

The BBC has created a "wellbeing" smartphone app called Own It aimed at children.

It monitors how young people interact with friends and family online and through messaging apps.

It uses AI to evaluate a child's mood so it can offer advice or encourage them to talk to trusted adults.

As we know, the digital world is a fantastic place for children to learn and share, but many struggle to find a healthy online balance, especially when they get their first phones.

The app acts as a "helping hand" to guide children into developing good habits when using their first phone and avoid some of the potential pitfalls of digital life. It is designed to offer help and support  for children, especially if they are about to share sensitive data or send, or receive, an upsetting message.

Own It  is built around a special software keyboard that pops up when kids type messages and monitors the tone of the words being typed and language used. The app also has its own content that aims to help children manage the amount of time they spend looking at their screen and passes on other advice about responsible online interaction.

We strongly encourage parents to download this app to their child's phone to help keep them safe on-line.