E-safety is an important part of children’s education in today’s digital world and is embedded in their learning at school. We also want to help our parents and children improve their own understanding of e-safety issues so they can learn to use the internet and all digital media in a safe and secure way.
As a parent you will know how important the internet is to children – they use it to learn, play, socialise and express themselves. It is a highly creative place, full of amazing opportunities. But the technology children use every day can seem a bit daunting and you might worry about the risks your child can face online – such as bullying, contact from strangers or the possibility of them seeing illegal or inappropriate content.
In school we teach children to follow the Kidsmart rule, to be SMART on the internet.
Safe – Keep safe by being careful not to give out personal information when you’re chatting or posting online. Personal information includes your email address, phone number and password.
Meeting – Meeting someone you have only been in touch with online can be dangerous, so it’s not a good idea. Only do so with your parents’ or carer’s permission and even then only when they can be present. Remember online friends are still strangers even if you have been talking to them for a long time.
Accepting – Accepting emails, instant messages, or opening file, pictures or texts from people you don’t know or trust can lead to problems – they may contain viruses or something nasty!
Reliable – Someone online might lie about who they are. If you are chatting online it’s best to only chat to your real world friends and family. Information on the internet may not be true. Always check information with other websites, books or someone you know.
Tell – Tell your parents, carer, trusted adult or Childline (0800 1111) if someone or something makes you feel uncomfortable or worried, or if you or someone you know is being bullied online.