What is internet safety (online safety)?
Online safety is being safe from risks to personal safety and well-being when using all fixed and mobile devices that allow access to the Internet as well as those that are used to communicate electronically. This includes personal computers, laptops, mobile phones and gaming consoles such as Xbox, Playstation and Wii.
What are the risks?
The internet has become an essential part of 21st century living, but misuse of the technology poses potential dangers. The risks can include:
- cyber-bullying (bullying or being bullied using any of the above technologies - this includes stalking and harassment) inappropriate content (being sent or being invited to view unwelcome content)
-scams/fraud (being targeted with the intent to obtain money illegally)
-grooming (unwanted approaches of a sexual nature or with sexual intent)
As part of our curriculum we focus upon how to stay safe on the Internet and when using mobile devices, through planned lessons and the use of resources such as CEOP's Think U Know.
There are lots of useful links for you below to browse. If you have any queries or concerns please do speak to your child's classteacher.
THINK about how you guide your family in the real world and do the same in the digital world – don’t be afraid to set boundaries and rules for your child from a young age.
- MAKE the most of tools like Parental Controls on computers, mobiles and games consoles, privacy features on social networking sites, and safety options on Google and other search engines
- TRY not to use technology as a babysitter too often – we all do it sometimes but it’s important to know what your child is doing
- MAKE digital issues part of everyday conversation – show your child that you understand how important technology is to them and talk about all its amazing benefits, but don’t shy away from difficult subjects like responsible online behaviour, bullying and inappropriate sites.
Checklist for under 5s
- START setting some boundaries now – it’s never too early to do things like set limits for the amount of time they can spend on the computer
- KEEP devices like your mobile out of reach and make sure you have passwords/PINs set up on them for the times you might lend them to your child... or for when they simply get hold of them themselves!
- CHECK the age ratings and descriptions on apps, games, online TV and films before downloading them and allowing your son or daughter to play with or watch them. If a game says 18 it is not suitable for younger children due to content.
- EXPLAIN your technology rules to grandparents, babysitters and the parents of your child’s friends so that they also stick to them when they’re looking after your child
- REMEMBER that public Wi-Fi (e.g. in cafés) might not have Parental Controls on it – so, if you hand over your iPad to your child while you’re having a coffee, they might be able to access more than you bargained for
- SET the homepage on your family computer or tablet to an appropriate website like Cbeebies
Checklist for 5 to 7 year olds
- CREATE a user account for your child on the family computer with appropriate settings and make the most of Parental Controls and tools like Google SafeSearch
- AGREE a list of websites they’re allowed to visit and the kind of personal information they shouldn’t reveal about themselves online (like the name of their school or their home address)
- DECIDE time limits for things like using the internet and playing on games consoles
- BEAR in mind what older siblings might be showing them on the internet, mobiles, games consoles and other devices and agree some rules as a whole family
- TALK to other parents about their views on things like what age to buy kids a mobile and don’t be pressured by your child into letting them use certain technologies if you don’t think they’re old enough or mature enough... no matter how much they pester you!