Parents, Carers and Children
Every year millions across the UK and globally celebrated Safer Internet Day. For parents and carers, it was a great opportunity to have a conversation with their child about staying safe online.
On Safer Internet Day, young people from across the UK consider what they could do to help make the internet a kinder and safer place. Perhaps you could talk to your child about what actions they could take to do this?
Often we hear about the negative impact that the internet and new technology has on young people, but on Safer Internet Day we wanted to celebrate the positives and to explore what we can all do to make sure that all young people have a positive time online. Parents and carers play a crucial role in supporting children to navigate the risks and make the most of the opportunities offered by technology. The most important thing parents can do is to have a conversation and stay engaged with their children's digital lives.
We tell our children to share but online it's different. In fact, sometimes sharing online can be dangerous.
Please access the information from the link below for advice for your child/ren when using the internet.
Advice for Children using the Internet (3 - 11 year olds)
Some parents feel confused by the internet – out of their depth, and out of control. The information below will help to reassure you, and give you everything you need to keep your children safe.
It is straightforward, no-nonsense advice that will untangle the web, and show you how you can be just as great a parent online, as you are the rest of the time. The internet is a great place for children to be.
Please click on the link below for more information and advice for parents and carers
Useful websites
The internet can be a useful tool for communicating, downloading information (such as recipes, maps, train times, weather etc) researching, shopping, teaching and generally having fun playing internet games and activities. For most people the internet has become the first port of call for information and a vital part of their everyday life; and for children and young people in particular an excellent tool for homework and chatting to friends!
Because of the prolific use of the internet coupled with the anonymity of internet users, internet safety has become paramount and all internet users need to be aware of the key issues. As with many activities in life, so long as you follow certain guidelines and are aware of the dangers, you should still be able to enjoy safe surfing. Many organisations have set up comprehensive websites which provides guides and rules on internet safety.
Internet watch foundation (www.iwf.org.uk).
The only organisation in the UK that provides an internet hotline for the public to report websites with potentially illegal content, it also features useful tips on internet safety, filters and links to other helpful organisations.
Get net wise (www.getnetwise.org)
This is an American public service website set up by internet industry corporations and public interest organisations designed to help ensure that internet users have safe, constructive, and educational or entertaining online experiences. An excellent website, easy-to-use with lots of comprehensive information on keeping children safe online, guidance on protecting your home PC, stopping unwanted emails and keeping your personal information private.
ThinkuKnow.co.uk (www.thinkuknow.co.uk)
This website provides advice and guidance for parents and schools on new technologies and safe use of the internet for children. Information on this website has been provided by Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP), the UK’s National law enforcement agency that focuses on tackling child abuse, An excellent website for schools and parents as there are plenty of downloadable free resources and presentations on internet safety. Caters for children as young as five.
Childnet International (www.childnet.com)
Childnet International is a non-profit organisation working with other organisations around the world to ensure the internet is a safe place for children. The website contains lots of information and resources for parents, teachers and children.