Elementary Student Internet Safety

The Internet can be a beneficial tool, but also a dangerous one, for both you and your child. Elementary schools provide Internet safety education, but online safety education shouldn’t end there. As a parent, you play a crucial role in regards to your child’s Internet safety.

Key Concepts

Elementary students of all ages will be taught the same core safety rules for using the Internet. These child safety rules include never giving out personal information, not sharing photos or meeting with other Internet users without seeking a parent’s permission, and reporting any uncomfortable online activity.

Personal Information

Personal information which shouldn’t be shared online by a child includes street address, phone number, parents’ work numbers and places of employment.

At School

While at school children shouldn’t use personal emails or participate in chat rooms. Elementary students should also never publicly share information about where they go to school.

At Home

You should discuss Internet usage with your child in order to set up guidelines which will ensure child safety while online. Online safety guidelines should include time of day your child can go online, how long he can stay online and what websites he can visit.

Tips

Don’t discourage your child’s use of the Internet. For instance, if your child wants to participate in a chat room, instead of saying no, find a chat room which will protect your child’s online safety.

References

• Alachua Public Schools: Internet Safety Information