E-Safety For Families

As technology continues to grow so do the dangers. At Wygate Park Academy, we believe it is vitally important that our learners stay safe online. Therefore, throughout the school we want to model and educate our learners to use technology positively, safely and responsibly. We want our learners to understand that there is a choice when using technology and as a school we want to utilise technology (including social media) positively and responsibly.

To support children to stay safe you could:

Keep up to date with the latest technology

Familiarise yourself with the newest digital platforms, social media apps and trends that your child is using/viewing and discuss the dangers and safety measures with your child(ren).

Open communications

Maintain open and honest communication with your child(ren) about the online activities.

Encourage them to share any concerns or experiences they have encountered online (promoting a safe space where they won’t get into trouble).

Set boundaries

Establish clear guidelines on screen time, online content and acceptable online behaviour.

Consider using parental controls (including software) to help enforce the boundaries.

Privacy and personal information

Teach your child(ren) not to share personal information such as their full names, address, school or phone numbers online.

Explain the importance of strong, unique passwords and the risks of sharing them.

Cyberbullying awareness

Make sure your child knows how to recognise and report cyberbullying incidents.

Encourage empathy and kindness in the online interactions.

Online stranger danger

Make sure your child knows how to recognise and report cyberbullying incidents.

Encourage sympathy and kindness in their online interactions.

Social media safety

Only use age-appropriate apps.

Discuss the implications of sharing photos and information on social media.

Ensure privacy settings are used on profiles belonging to children.

Content filtering

Consider using content filters to block inappropriate and harmful content.

Learn about the built-in safety features of devices and apps your child(ren) use.

Online gaming

Discuss the importance of respectful and kind gaming behaviour.

Beware of in-game chats and communications.

Don’t link bank accounts to gaming accounts or discuss the importance in-app game purchases.

Useful links

1. NSPCC Online Safety
   • The NSPCC provides resources and guidance for parents on keeping children safe online.

2. Internet Matters
   • Internet Matters offers a variety of resources and tools to help parents navigate the digital world with their children.

3. Common Sense Media
   • Common Sense Media provides age-appropriate reviews of media and technology and offers advice for parents.

4. UK Safer Internet Centre
   • The UK Safer Internet Centre offers resources and advice on internet safety for children and young people.

5. ConnectSafely
   • ConnectSafely provides guides and advice on various aspects of online safety, including social media and gaming.