It’s essential that children know they have people they can turn to if they have any problems or concerns whilst online. They also need to be clear about who they can turn to.
Teachers, parents, carers and other trusted adults can all help and there are other sources of support for children such as Childline, CEOP and help/report buttons found on websites.
Reluctance to tell
Children may be reluctant to report problems that they have online. They may feel that they have done something wrong or that they will get into trouble. They may be embarrassed and worried that they won’t be allowed to use a computer again.
Adults should work with children to make sure they feel confident:
- Talking about their concerns
- That someone will listen to them
- That they will be supported
Resources
Case study
Elaine Gill, Headteacher, Shiphay School
Ensuring safe practice amongst the children is obviously crucial and we’ve developed a really simple set of protocols for children.
It has worked really really well. Children will teach each other, they have peer support and they will talk to adults about making them aware of what good judgement looks like.
Jill Ward, E-safety Co-ordinator, Shiphay School
If you find something or you’re worried about anything and you think it doesn’t feel right, close the lid of the laptop and tell an adult. The adult will take that on and deal with it.
