Let’s talk about…. E-Safety
Ok, hands up who has ever caught their little cutie with their phone in their hands when your back was turned?! How about the time they accessed your tablet and you’re still working out how on earth they got into it?
It’s oh so easy to click a few buttons and suddenly have access to a world of opportunity. If the opportunity is used in the correct way, then yes, it’s wonderful. However, we all know there is, sadly the not so good side to the digital world that we all need to play our part in defending.
In the modern day, digital world we can’t get away from technology, social media and the internet- You are even reading this sentence by way of being online and may have come to visit my website via social media!
The development of technology is no way slowing down so we really have no choice but to be ‘ready’ for further expansion in the future.
As parents, we are very good at reminding our children about E-Safety, and ensuring that they stay safe online. How often do we take a step back and reflect on what we do ourselves? When was the last time you checked your location and privacy settings? When was the last time you cleared your browser and cache? How is your E-Safety looking?!
We are very good at being the ones to tell but not so good at being the ones who lead by example. Our kids watch our every move. Without realising it, they model their behaviour, habits and personalities on what they see from us, the grown ups.
Sure, they might have the odd tantrum and let us know how much they ‘hate’ us, but really our precious little ones know that they need us to look out for them, guide them and protect them from the hazards that are sadly, very real in the digital world.
It is vital that we, as parents and carers, have access to guidance and advice about how to help and protect our children in the online world. We should encourage open and honest discussions with our children highlighting the importance of parental controls, which websites and games are suitable for different age-groups, and what to do if you suspect your child is being bullied online.
I do hope you will be able to make use of the links and documents below in starting those all so important chats with your youngsters.
If you have any questions or would like to make suggestions for links or content to share with other parents, please get in touch via info@welcommewonderland.com
CEOP for Parents– Advice, help and support for Parents
CEOP Reporting– Has someone done something online that has made you or child feel worried or unsafe?
Family agreement for being online
Parental controls offered by your home internet provider
Protecting children’s privacy online- a Parent’s guide
Family lives- Parent channel- Instant parental tips & advice Apps guide for Parents
