Digital Literacy opens up a new wide world for children. However, just like the real world, children must learn how to navigate it to avoid any dangers. At our school, children are taught how to stay safe online through the PSHE and Computing curriculums along side regular reminders and updates as necessary.
We advocate parents building strong, open relationships with their children through careful monitoring of what children are accessing online and regular chats about online activity. Please note, that whilst online safety is taught extensively through school, we have high level filtering which ensures children are safe to search and explore the internet. The same provisions will only apply at home if you put this filtering in place. If more information, please contact your network provider.
Mental Health
Mental health and the use of technology go hand in hand. In recent years, we have seen a decline in the mental health of children relating to online safety. Parents have reported:
- Children spending an excessive amount of time online.
- Children gaming for long periods and refusing to come off when asked by parents.
- Children accessing apps or playing games that they are too young for.
- Children sharing inappropriate content.
- Online bullying through messaging apps.
- Online grooming.
Useful Links:
Common Sense Media is a great resource for getting to know about all aspects of media including apps, games, films and TV series.
Internet Matters provide guidance on setting up devices, tackling online issues, choosing age appropriate apps and give tips on how to talk about internet safety.
Parent Zone gives up to date advice for parents on the latest developments in technology and onlince safety.
Think You Know is the National Crime Agency's online safety site which helps with legalities as well as giving advice.
ChildNet provides help, advice and resources for parents and carers.
The NSPCC provide some excellent resources especially to teach younger children about being safe.
Helpful Guides
Each week, The National College produces a #wakeupwednesday guide for parents. The information in these guides ranges in suitability from toddlers to late teens. Whenever there is something relevant to our families, we'll share it here.
Children in primary school must not access any social media as they are under the legal age of 13 - some apps even carry an 16 age restriction.
Are you worried about online sexual abuse or the way someone has been communicating with you or your child online?
You can report this to 'Child Exploitation and Online Protection' who will guide you through process. Follow think link here
Remember: if you think a child is in danger, contact this police immediately.