Internet Safety and Kids

So today is Internet Safety day. I actually started this blog post yesterday not knowing there was an official day for it.

So recently, I had a discussion with my 10 year old son about the pros and cons of the Internet. Like most 10 year old boys, he is pretty tech savvy and has access to various technological devices. He proceeded to tell me one day of a friend of his who has a television, computer and gaming console in their bedroom.  They also have their own YouTube channel. Pretty impressive, I'm not sure I would know how to run my own YouTube channel, but it seems it's the thing to do nowadays.  It seemed my son was telling me about his friend as a hint that he would maybe ask for the same. I promptly reminded my son of the house rules that we won't be allowing computers connected to the Internet, televisions etc in bedrooms.

We chatted about how people and things may not be what they seem and it's important for parents to protect their children. The conversation was harder than I thought, partly because this son takes things quite literally and remains pretty innocent or naive (however you want to look at it), so the use of language was really important. I think I got the message across though and he was accepting of it. 

The experience made me interested to find out from others what kind of house rules they have in relation to Internet safety? What conversations have you had? Any funnies you wish to share?

The Internet is an integral part of life now, some people are frightened of it and view it negatively. My goal is to teach my children how to use it wisely and safely.  There are LOADS of excellent resources out there, here are just a few links to get you started:

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/talking-your-child-staying-safe-online/

https://www.getsafeonline.org/safeguarding-children/10-to-12/

Happy surfing!!