Safer Internet Day 2019

It means equipping children with the knowledge of how to use new and developing technologies safely. It is ensuring that they are protected from harm.

The digital world is exciting and interesting and is forever expanding. It can help children to learn, be creative, stay in touch with their friends as well as be great fun. However with all these positives there are things that we need to be aware of:

• Conduct: children need to be aware of the impact that their online activity can have on themselves and others people and of the digital footprint that they create on the internet Sometimes they may share too much information about themselves and their families. Other times, they may be talking to people they don’t know or even accessing inappropriate information.
• Access: some online materials are not suitable for children and may be hurtful or harmful. So, they need to be careful of how they access and view Social Networks, On-line games, blogs and websites.
• Contact: it is important for children to realise that new friends made online may not be who they say they are. Friends are those who we know in real life.

Talk to your child

It is understandable that you, parents, may worry about your child’s safety and the risks online. But if you can create a balanced approach and provide a safe environment, the internet could become an exciting opportunity, full of suitable and educative information that can be enriching to your child’s learning

It is important that you talk to your child about what they can do on-line and of the risks involved. Also, tell them what they can do if they see something that they think is not right. This is one way of ensuring your child’s safety when they are using devices.

Talk to your child. You could start by asking them what do they like to do the most on the internet. Ask them about their favourite sites, apps, games, videos or music. It is by talking to your child and asking relevant questions that you will be able to protect them.

Parental Controls

However, there are tools to help you manage what your child can access. These can be easily done by contracting your broadband provider. Make sure your privacy settings are updated. This will limit your digital footprint.

A copy of our Online Safety presentation can be downloaded here: E safety presentation for parents

Finally, if you would like to find out more about your child’s safety online. There are a number of organisations that can help such as:

www.saferinternet.org.uk

https://www.o2.co.uk/help/nspcc/child-protection