Heathcote students are taking part in the 2010 EU Internet Safety Day. Parents and teachers are today being encouraged to help change children’s online behaviour to mark this important day.
Research by Ofcom shows that 78% of 5-7 year olds are now using the internet*, so learning about online safety is as integral as learning to cross the road.
Helen Penn, CEOP’s Head of Education explains more: "Younger and younger children are using the internet to talk to family and friends and to play games. By helping them to develop safe online behaviour from an early age, we can ensure that our children are fully equipped with the understanding and knowledge they need to stay safe." The theme this year is ‘Think before you post’ and we would like to encourage everyone to do just that – do you really know who you are talking to? Is it really sensible to post that photo of yourself on your social networking site? By changing children’s online behaviour and educating them from an early age, we not only empower them with the skills they need to stay safe, but also deter those offenders who seek to harm children onlineâ€.
To mark the EU Safer Internet Day 2010 Heathcote students have been learning about internet safety in class and in assemblies.
For more information on this important issue you can visit the following sites:
*Research from OFCOM, UK children’s media literacy: interim report Sept 2009
