Cyber Safety
Cyber Safety
The internet is a great resource for finding out about almost anything you could think of but, it is important that children are aware of the dangers they might face online, just as they are of those when they’re out and about. Dangers also occur when young people are exposed to using mobile technologies before they are ready – in particular texting and online gaming.
During their leisure time many of our pupils regularly access games or watch films, all of which have been rated to show whether they are appropriate for certain age groups.
Ratings exist to protect children and vulnerable adults from potentially harmful or otherwise unsuitable media content. They also empower parents and those with responsibility for children to make informed viewing decisions.
We cannot stress enough how important it is for you to monitor what your child is watching or playing. This is particularly important for children with special educational needs as we have to consider not only their actual age but their presenting age.
Whilst some of the content may seem harmless enough at the time it can have a lasting impact on a child’s mental wellbeing and affect their behaviour later on. It also has the potential to affect their reactions in certain situations.
Please try to look at the films or games that your child is accessing so that you know the content and can respond to any questions your child might have. At the very least please ensure that your child is only accessing age appropriate material.
Click Here for a link to the BBFC (British Board of Film Classification) Website
Click Here for the PEGI (Pan European Gaming Information) Website
If you would like any further information or advice please do not hesitate in contacting the school and thank you for your continuing support.
Below are a few tips on how to protect you and your family on the internet.
- When they are using the computer put it in a place where you can see the screen.
- Supervise your children when they are on-line, especially if they are young.
- Supervise pupils use of mobile phones, especially if they are vulnerable or easily led.
- Ask your internet provider about parental controls which are available to help manage your child’s internet access.
- Talk to your child/children about what they are using the internet for.
- Teach them not to give out personal information such as their name, address, phone number, school name, photo or places they like to go out to.
- Teach them to be careful about strangers they meet on the internet. They should be treated in the same way as strangers they meet when they are out.
- Remind them that people they meet online may not be who they say they are.
- Never let your child meet someone they have met on the internet unless you are with them.
- Encourage your child/children to tell you if something happens online that they don’t like. Let them know that you will listen to them.
Here are a list of up to date Cyber-safety websites approved and recommended by Hampshire County Council (Updated Sep 2015