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In the same way that we advise our children to look both ways when crossing the street, or not to talk to or accept anything from strangers, we also need to alert them to the dangers present in the digital world. How should we do this? The best prevention is information: the more they know about the risks and limitations, the more easily children will be able to avoid them. With that in mind, my golden tip is always an open conversation and a friendly dialogue with our little ones.
Within this context, why not present this valuable advice in a book? Well, a few weeks ago, I found an amazing book in a bookstore, entitled “Staying Safe Online” (published by Usborne). I would say that the target readers are children around 7 years old; however, I think that it could be very useful for parents, childcares and educators. Why might it be useful for adults? Mainly because the author (Louie Stowell) is very straightforward and realistic about the use of technology by kids, and helps us to update ourselves about all digital channels available. In addition, the content is explained in clear simple language to the readers, explaining the real risks related to children and the Internet. This is a great opportunity for adults to approach the kids with this topic using relevant information, and then the youngsters can learn in a fun way how to protect themselves.
This book 128 pages long and is fully illustrated (by Nancy Leschnikoff), making the reading more enjoyable and interesting. I should also say that it is clearly divided into chapters, including: Cyberbullying, Online Manners, Social Media, How to Ask for Help, and Digital Detox (I loved this one), among others. I think that this is an effective tool for everyone since, as Paul Vlissidis, technical director at cyber security firm NCC Group, emphasised, in order to make the digital world a safe place for children, family participation is essential. Thus, this kind of literature can improve everyone’s knowledge of the topic, and we can then guide our children in using the Internet more safely and taking full advantage of all the opportunities it has to offer.
By the way, this is not a paid advertisement ;>) - I just really loved it!
I hope you and your kid(s) enjoy it.
References:
https://www.usbornebooksathome.co.uk/catalogue/catalogue.aspx?cat=1&area=S&subcat=co&id=10856