There has recently been an upsurge in online activity worldwide, possibly linked to the amount of time during lockdowns through COVID that children have been on their devices.

Whilst the internet is an amazing resource it also gives rise to huge risks and threats to our emotional wellbeing. Such apps as TikTok and Snapchat if used well are incredible. If not used well they can be used to spread values that do not line up with our own.

Please be aware that your child can access material and communicate with ANYONE AROUND THE WORLD.

It is disturbing that children are on devices unsupervised and oftentimes throughout the night. I would URGE all parents to be aware of the apps their children use. Many of them have an age restriction and are totally unsuitable for young children. We have also been aware locally and nationally of the issues children have with the use of online chats through PS4, XBox etc.

There was a situation recently reported in the news where viewers were invited to view “things” that we would be horrified to know our children had access to. SO, please take this alert seriously and check your children's device activity and leave nothing to chance.

Young children are not always capable of making the right choices with what they view and who they connect with on line.

Happy Days all you amazing parents and caregivers.

Regards

Scot Kinley

NB for further advice see the school newsletter on Friday for netsafe tips or sign into the netsafe website for some great resources or visit linewize for further advice.

Also please know that the school has Ministry of Education web filtering which provides extra security for internet use at school.