Internet Safety

One of the most important ways to keep children safe online is to ensure that they know simple rules or SAFETY TIPS . However it is important to think about how you communicate these to children. The results showed that putting these messages across in a positive way that empowered children and helped them to take responsibility was the best.

An informal style of communicating these tips which doesn't scare the children but encourages them to take responsibility includes:
Always keep your personal details (name, address) private. It's like giving out the keys to your house !

Your personal password is your own special identity, so keep it secret and don't share it - even with your best friend or someone who sounds official.

Making new e-pals whilst on line is cool, but tell your parents about who you have met and introduce them to your new friends.

If you want to meet someone you have met in cyberspace, ask your parents/carer's permission, and then only when they can be present.

There's great stuff on the Net, but some bad stuff too! So always tell a parent or teacher if you come across anything which makes you feel uncomfortable.

Chat can be fun, but don't hang around in a chat room if someone makes you feel uncomfortable or worried. Remember you're in charge out there!

Some teachers take these up with the students and then have them and their parents sign it.
One of the most comprehensive Internet Safety Awareness initiatives is the American Getnetwise programme. The Getnetwise site contains full advice on safety on the Internet.

Further advice on Childnet's safety tips can be seen at
http://www.childnet-int.org/tips/index.htm
and a full colour poster with these Safety tips is available at
http://www.childnet-int.org/poster/