Internet Safety
How to effectively and safely use the internet for children
Internet Safety: The Basics
The internet can be an extremely useful tool in the classroom as long as it is used correctly and safely. By following these guidelines, students can get the most out their internet experience:
- Never share names, schools, ages, phone numbers, or addresses
- Never send pictures to or communicate with strangers
- Keep passwords private
- Never open email from strangers, it may contain viruses that can harm a computer
- Immediately tell an adult if something mean or unusual happens.
http://www.commonsensemedia.org/advice-for-parents/internet-safety-tips-elementary-school-kids
Videos on Internet Safety
The following video is an example of a video you could show to children grades K-3 in order to stress internet safety:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89eCHtFs0XM
Also, a video for parents to view in order to be the most informed cyber parent:
Why Internet Safety Matters
For students who are not informed of the dangers of the internet, it can lead to detrimental acts. These include cyberbulling, illegal uploads and downloads, meeting strangers, inappropriate photos and videos and even cheating. What students don't fully understand is that once something is posted on the internet it is no longer theirs. Therefor it can be forwarded and viewed by people that it was not intended to be viewed by. Teaching students self-reflection and thinking twice when they're using the internet makes for a more responsible and safe world.
Strategies For A Safer World
- Visit only age-appropriate sites
- Eliminate chatting with strangers
- Help kids think critically and reflectively about what they find online
- Teach that if they wouldn’t do it in real life, they shouldn’t do it online
- Agree on downloads whether appropriate or not
- Talk about privacy
- Make sure kids feel safe reporting bad behavior to adults
- Be involved and set an example
http://www.commonsensemedia.org/advice-for-parents/internet-safety-tips-middle-school-kids#tip_1