With increased access to the internet through a variety of devices it has become more and more important to discuss with children the dangers the internet could pose as well as the possibilities it can also open up.

Even with an awareness of the dangers the internet can pose children should always be supervised when using and accessing the internet. They should only play games that are deemed age appropriate, they should be supervised when using the internet and social media; children should be 13 before they have a Facebook account.

At Oakley Infant School we teach children about keeping safe when using the technology. In Year 1 we teach the children about keeping safe on the internet through the cartoon series of Hector's World. We discuss at great length their personal details and what they can do to protect them.  

In Year 2 the children build on their learning about e-Safety through the cartoon series The Adventures of Kara, Winston and the Smart Crew learning the SMART message.

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. Only do so with your parents’ or carers’ 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, IM messages, or opening files, pictures or texts from people you don’t know or trust can lead to problems – they may contain viruses or nasty messages!

Reliable – Someone online might lie about who they are and information on the internet may not be true. Always check information with other websites, books or someone who knows. If you like chatting online it’s best to only chat to your real world friends and family.

Tell – Tell your parent, carer or a trusted adult if someone or something makes you feel uncomfortable or worried, or if you or someone you know is being bullied online.