ESAFETY
The use of Information Technology (IT) is an integral part of teaching and learning at The Cobbs Infant and Nursery School. The children benefit from a wide range of technical resources, with online capabilities at the centre of their learning.
Within our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) the children will have access to their own area, class activities and the ability to communicate with staff and each other.
However, access to the Internet and other e-learning resources requires training, guidance and advice to ensure that everyone learns in a safe environment. Along with the training the children receive within school, we have compiled a list of sites which offer guidance to children and parents on the safe use of e-learning tools. Check them out for some great e-safety tips.
- http://www.childnet.com/resources/the-adventures-of-kara-winston-and-the-smart-crew - these cartoons illustrate 5 e-safety SMART rules and include a real life SMART Crew of young people, who guide the cartoon characters in their quest, and help them make safe online decisions.
- https://www.childnet.com/resources/know-it-all-for-primary/ - do you think that you 'know it all'? Then check out the childnet site to see if you are right.
- www.thinkuknow.co.uk - if you are a clued up kid or a puzzled pensioner, there is something here to help you get the most from the Internet.
- https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/ NSPCC and O2 Online Safety Partnership.
- https://saferinternet.org.uk/ Helping children and young people stay safe online.
Gaming
Getting Ready for Gaming
Arguably, gaming now plays one of the most important parts of our children's lives. With 81% of children aged 0-17 now playing online games, it essential that we understand how we can help them to play safely. Many of our children enjoy playing games online which often involve socialising with others. In the main this is very enjoyable, but there can be some issues.
Playing games that are unsuitable can be a problem as this results in children using inappropriate language and playing games that have inappropriate content.
There is specific age and game related advice below to help you through this vast minefield of do's and don'ts. However, the best advice is to use a common sense approach:
- check a game's age rating - it is visible on all boxes and digital downloads and age ratings are there to give a clear indication of the suitability of a game's content.
- read reviews of the game online - research the game before buying or downloading and if buying from an 'App Store' read reviews if available or speak to friends and see if they have any background information on the game.
- keep an eye on children whilst playing - now, whilst we are not recommending watching every Minecraft level, or Fortnite mission, it is recommended that you occasionally either watch them play or play alongside them - this can give you a first hand insight into the content of the games.
General eSafety Information
If you cannot find the information you are looking for, please contact us