1. Internet Safety
Is this how to protect children?
Justine Sutcliffe

2. It’s here to stay!!
Modern communication is not going to go away. We need our children to be able to make intelligent, informed choices about the technology they use and the information that comes from it.

3. An analogy to think about
When it comes to technology, good parenting (or teaching) is exactly the same as in real life!
We release a child into the world slowly:-
At the park, we go onto the equipment with them to begin with. Then we put them on, make sure they’re safe and let them play. Next we stay in the park, keeping a watchful eye whilst they play alone. Later again, we might go to a café whilst they enjoy themselves. Now, I don’t even know when they’re at the park – as long as they’re home for tea!!!!!

4. Modern Communication Technology
Benefits
A world of information at your fingertips
Learning and revisions support *
Instant communication with friends and family, far and near.
A sense of “belonging” (online communities, networks)
Speed and convenience (online shopping, banking etc)
*Children with home access average one grade higher at KS4 testing (eLearning Foundation)

5. Modern Communication Technology
Dangers
Inappropriate exposure to adult content
Approaches from strangers with dubious intentions
Online bullying
Gaming Addiction
Gambling
Technical Security Breaches
Identity theft
Spam and scams
Copyright and Plagiarism Issues

6. When/where can they get access?
Does their mobile have internet access?
What about their tablet, ipad or touch?
Is your x-box “live” or connected to sky?
You no longer need a laptop or PC to access the internet. Even if your child doesn’t have these gadgets, their friends may well do!

7. Ways to Protect our Children
Establish rules – and make sure they are followed!
Check up on them. You need to know what sites they are visiting – and what time they are there!
Use filters and spy-ware BUT don’t think that’s enough. Be vigilant.
Encourage children to be savvy about the information they receive.

8. Basic Rules for the Under 8s
Never give your real name, address, DoB etc – use a Screen name and create an image (avatar) for when pictures are required.
If something comes on screen you don’t like, understand or want – close the screen and get an adult.
Only use agreed sites. (These can be bookmarked for younger children). “If you want to go on something new – we’ll try it out together first. You can show me how it works!”
It’s obvious this is me – but I’m not disclosing anything about myself!

9. Junior School Age Children
Ask permission before you join up to any sites. Still protect your identity.
Use the internet/mobile in a shared room (not in bedrooms), at agreed times of the day.
Be careful not to believe everything you read – check information on at least 2 good quality sites (especially if it’s for homework!)
Only give your address or mobile phone number to friends that you trust
Only open s from recognised senders. Ask an adult to clear out your inbox for spam and junk.
If you come across anything you think is dodgy or unpleasant, turn off the screen and tell an adult.

10. Tweens, Teens and Beyond!
Remember – don’t just let them loose!
Encourage them to question everything they see – Is it safe? Is it reliable?
Look out for secure websites for payments and exchanging information
Age limits on facebook and the like are there for a reason – is your child ready for an unmonitored adult environment?
Keep a dialogue open. Watch out for warning signs.
Use their technology to keep in touch. They might find it easier to text you or you. IM is even better – it isn’t saved and so disappears!
Confused? Out of your depth? Get your teen to show you how it works!

11. School’s Rules! Responsible Internet Use
These rules help us to be fair to others and keep everyone safe.
I will ask permission before using the Internet.
I will use only my own network login and password.
I will only look at or delete my own files.
I understand that I must not bring software or disks into school without permission. I will only people I know, or my teacher has approved.
The messages I send will be polite and sensible.
I understand that I must never give my home address or phone number, or arrange to meet someone.
I will ask for permission before opening an or an attachment sent by someone I do not know.
I will not use Internet chat.
If I see anything I am unhappy with or I receive messages I do not like, I will tell a teacher immediately.
I understand that the school may check my computer files and the Internet sites I visit.
I understand that if I deliberately break these rules, I may not be allowed to use the Internet or computers.