Online Relationships
The internet! A place of endless possibilities to learn, create and connect!
But with the digital world changing all the time, how do we make sure children stay safe while online.
It’s never too early to think about developing good habits when using technology. With around 42% of 5 – 7 year old’s owning a tablet, it’s important that as they start to explore the many experiences the internet has to offer, we ensure they learn effective strategies for staying safe while considering their own behaviour online.
Safer Internet UK Notes 4 Potential Online Risks Children Should Be Aware of:
Conduct
Awareness of the benefits of time spent on and offline, with the awareness of how their own and other’s online behaviour may impact mental well-being
Content
Age-inappropriate or unreliable content can be available to children. Children should know how to report inappropriate conversations, messages and images
Contact
Sometimes people behave differently online, including bullying or pretending to be someone they are not. Children should tell a trusted adult is something is making them uncomfortable
Commercialism
Young people can be unaware of hidden costs and advertising in apps, games and websites.
Online Safety Tips For Parents
Put Yourself In Control
Use the parental controls on your home broadband and any internet-enabled devices.
Use Passwords
Keep your devices out of reach and set passwords on all your internet-enabled devices. Helps to avoid unwanted purchases
Search Safely
Use safe search engines such as swiggle.org.uk or kids-search.com. Safe search settings can also be activated by Google and YouTube.
Check It's Suitable
The age ratings that come with games, apps, films and social networks are a good guide to whether they’re suitable for your child. The minimum age limit is 13 for several social networking sites, including Facebook and Instagram.
Explore Together
Encourage them to tell you what they are doing online and explore it together. Encourage them to use devices in communal areas such as the kitchen or the lounge so you can see what sites they’re visiting.
Share Strategies
Such as turning off the screen and telling a trusted adult if they see something they are not comfortable or are being bullied. Encourage them to think before they post.
Thinkyouknow
Animations and activities to help 8 – 10 year olds learn how to stay safe online
Resources for Schools on Online Relationships
Teaching children and young people about how to stay safe and have healthy relationships online is more than just teaching about cyber-bullying. It’s about learning the fundamental skills to maintain safe and healthy relationships irrespective of whether these are online or offline.
NSPCC Share Aware
Lesson plans and classroom guidance to help teach children to stay safe online.
Childnet
Lesson plans and activities for children ages 3 to 19 including social networking, cyber-bullying, grooming, downloading and file sharing
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