ONLINE SAFETY

As part of our shared commitment to the wellbeing of your children, I would like to take this opportunity to discuss the importance of online safety, particularly as it pertains to the use of social media and group chats.
The Importance of Staying Safe Online
The internet is an incredible resource, offering children opportunities to learn, connect, and be creative. However, it also presents risks such as exposure to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and online predators. It is crucial for children to understand how to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.
Social Media Use
While many social media platforms have age restrictions and as a school we strongly recommend that your children do not go on any form of social media, we are aware that some parents may choose to allow their children to use these platforms earlier than recommended. If this is the case, we strongly encourage you to take proactive steps to ensure their safety:
- Set Clear Boundaries: Discuss which platforms your child is allowed to use and for how long. Ensure they understand the importance of privacy and never sharing personal information online.
- Monitor Usage: Regularly review your child’s activity on social media, including their posts, friends or followers, and the content they engage with.
- Teach Responsible Posting: Encourage your child to think carefully before posting. Explain that once something is shared online, it can be difficult to remove.
- Privacy Settings: Help your child set up strong privacy settings to limit who can see their content and interact with them.
- Open Communication: Foster a trusting relationship where your child feels comfortable discussing any concerns or issues they encounter online.
Group chats can be a great way for children to stay connected with their peers, but they also require careful oversight to ensure they remain positive and appropriate:
- Set Expectations: Discuss respectful communication and emphasize the importance of kindness and inclusion.
- Check-In Regularly: Occasionally review the content of group chats to ensure they are safe and constructive.
- Address Issues Promptly: If problems such as bullying or inappropriate messages arise, address them immediately and, if necessary, involve other parents or school staff.
- Encourage Reporting: Teach your child how to report inappropriate behavior to the platform or a trusted adult.
We understand that navigating these challenges can be daunting. To support you, we are providing the following resources:
- Guides: Attached to this letter, you will find a detailed guide on managing online safety, including step-by-step instructions for setting up privacy controls.