WHAT IS ONLINE SAFETY?

Online Safety is the term used to talk about many things but, in its simplest form, it is all about staying safe online and when using digital devices. It is essential that children feel comfortable using the Internet and understand the important, and forever increasing, role that it plays in modern-day life. However, it is vital that children understand how to stay safe online and protect themselves from potential threats, dangers, distressing content and radicalisation.

This section of our website is aimed at helping parents/carers become familiar with aspects of Online Safety and how to support their children in the most effective ways possible. It’s important to remember that we don’t teach children to swim by showing them a video – we put them in the water and help them develop the skills to remain safe. The same applies with Online Safety – children won’t develop the necessary skills if we don’t let them use the Internet and online services and discover potential dangers as they arise.

ALWAYS TELL A TRUSTED ADULT IF SOMETHING MAKES YOU FEEL UNCOMFORTABLE ONLINE.

WHAT IF MY CHILDREN KNOW MORE ABOUT TECHNOLOGY THAN ME?

It’s not necessarily all about knowing how technologies work or how to operate them, but more about understanding their uses and the dangers that could be associated with them. The good news, however, is that Childnet International has a dedicated section for parents/carers which includes:

• Conversation starters to discuss Online Safety with your children
• Hot Topics on issues affecting youngsters online these days
• A glossary of internet terms and abbreviations
• Help on how to make a report online, including links to the Child Exploitation Online Protection (CEOP) Centre

To access these resources, click here to visit the Childnet website.

The NSPCC also have excellent guidance for parents on discussing aspects of Online Safety with their children. They offer tried and tested strategies as well as providing support for various scenarios that you may be concerned are affecting your child.

Click here to visit the NSPCC page for parents and carers.

As well as all of the resources listed here, there are many organisations, charities and companies that can offer support and advice around the subject of E-Safety. If you have concerns or wish to discuss anything further, please contact school