Keeping your child safe online

Children today have embraced new technologies as a source of information, education and entertainment. The use of digital technology has been completely normalised by this generation and it is now fully integrated into their daily lives.

Children and young people are using technology in new and exciting ways, enhancing and enriching their lives with the many tools on offer.

In their exploration of these technologies, young people are not only developing their ICT skills, but also a whole host of ‘softer’ skills – creativity, communication and networking skills, for example – which will be much in demand by the employers of the future.

Children and young people need to be empowered to keep themselves safe; we have included links below for both children and parents to give you further information on how to stay safe and aware online.

Read our Digital Citizenship Policy here.

Links for Children

There are lots of great things to do on the Internet but, you also need to know how to stay safe online and what to do if you come across something you don’t like.

• Think U Know for 5 to 7 year olds – 5, 6 or 7? This website has been set up just for you, to help you go on the internet in a safe way and know who to talk to if you are worried.
• Think U Know for 8 to 10 year olds – showing you what’s good, look at what’s not and show you ways you can get yourself out of bad situations.
• Kids Smart – gives advice on how to stay safe on the Internet, whatever you are doing including searching for information, playing games, listening to music and entering competitions.
• CBBC Stay Safe: Advice on Internet Safety – includes interactive clips from Tracy Beaker, a Newsround Special and Dongle’s Guide to be SMART.

Links for Parents and Carers

Using the internet can make learning fun, fast and easy. The following sites offer help to keeping you and your child safe online:

• BBC Webwise online safety course – this site gives advice on not only keeping your child safe, but also gives tips on what adults should be doing for themselves too.
• Think U Know – Parents and Carers – produced by the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP). Their site offers really good advice on keeping your child safe online.
• DirectGov Internet Safety – offering advice on Cyberbullying, Social Netwroking, downloading files and online gaming as well as general advice on keeping your child safe online.
• Are you a switched on Parent? – click to find out!
• Does your broadband provider offer internet parental controls?  Check here for comparisons

Link to Parents Meeting Power Point – E-Safety for Parents and Carers

Inclusion

• Keep them safe – free online course to help parents to protect their children against sexual exploitation