We know that use of the internet, social media and online gaming is growing rapidly, presenting us with both opportunities and risks.  If you want to stay safe online, you need to understand these risks and learn how to avoid them. 

The internet is now such an integral part of children's lives; it opens up so many educational and social opportunities, giving them access to a world of information and experiences. Whether on a computer at school or home, a games console, tablet or mobile phone, children and young people are increasingly accessing the internet whenever they can and wherever they are.  As they start to communicate with others through gaming or social networks there is the temptation to overshare information which could lead to incidences of cyberbullying or put them at risk of being approached by those that may wish them harm.  We recognise the importance of equipping our pupils with the knowledge and skills that they need to be safe and confident when using the internet.

Top Tips:

1. Talk to your child about what they’re up to online.

2. Watch Thinkuknow films and cartoons with your child.

3. Keep up-to-date with your child’s development online.

4. Set boundaries in the online world just as you would in the real world.

5. Keep equipment that connects to the internet in a family space if you can or remove from the bedroom at night time

6. Be aware of and discuss PEGI ratings for games/apps https://parentzone.org.uk/article/pegi-games-ratings

7. Use parental controls on devices that link to the internet, such as the TV, laptops, computers, games consoles and mobile phones.

The following links provide information about how to use the Internet safely:

Childnet - learn how to stay safe and surf SMART on the internet.

Thinkuknow - excellent website for everything parents need to know about keeping children safe online.

NSPCC Keeping Your Child Safe On-Line - Part of the NSPCC web site.      

UK Safer Internet

National Online Safety - Guides to different apps, games and websites    

Internet Matters - information and advice for parents