INTENT
At Greenmeadow primary school, we believe that confidence in Computing prepares the children for whatever technologies they will use in the future, as well as developing the deep links with mathematics, science, and design and technology. Technology is all around us in our day to day lives and because of this, we want to model and educate our pupils on how to use technology positively, responsibly and safely. A high-quality computing education equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing ensures that our pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.
The global theme is ‘together for a better internet’ and this year in the UK we are putting the focus on how young people can tell fact from fiction, and work together to create an internet we trust.
Everyone has their part to play in making the internet a better place, including you!
Watch this video to find out more about the theme this year.
Have a look at the tips and links below with some suggestions on how to get you started and help you to stay safe and positive online.
Talk together
Communication is the key to identifying online misinformation….
Talk regularly with your child about how they use technology and where they go for information online. Discuss who they follow, what types of adverts they see, and what stories they find surprising or suspicious. Listening to your child will give you the best possible idea of how you can support them. Not sure where to begin? Have a look at our suggested 'Conversation Starters' for parents and carers.
Set an example
Show your child how you question and evaluate online content….
If you come across a fake news story, or get sent a phishing email, discuss with your child how you spotted it and what you did. Why not ask them for a second opinion? Your child may have already heard about it or seen something similar, and if not, it’s a learning opportunity for both of you. Seeing a parent actively question and evaluate online content teaches young people the importance of doing the same.
Think before you share
Fact-check and reflect before sharing content, posts or pictures….
It can be tempting to share surprising or attention-grabbing online content with your child or your family group chats, but make sure to fact-check these links before you do. As it’s come from a parent, some children may believe it without questioning it, and older children may find it difficult or awkward to point out if it is false or misleading. This is another chance to set a good example in how to share information responsibly online.
Check in with your child
How does misleading information they see online make them feel?
False and misleading content online can be upsetting and confusing, e.g. harmful claims that target specific groups, or unhealthy lifestyle tips. Young people may feel powerless when faced with the amount of unreliable content they see. Regularly check-in with your child about their online life and ask them how what they see makes them feel. This is an issue that affects all of us. Reassure your child that you are there to talk about things that upset them and to support them with how they feel.
Seek help and support
Ask other parents how they address misleading online content….
Just as we ask young people to talk about what they are unsure of, make sure you do too! Chances are that you’ll find other parents or carers who are trying to figure out how to help their family avoid false information and get the most out of the internet.
Find out how to get more support by visiting Childnet's 'Need Help?' page. You can take steps to support your child online by using features such as making a report on a range of apps, games and services, and using privacy settings on social media.
For more information about Safer Internet Day (including family activities), click here.
ONLINE SAFETY
We understand that in an ever-changing, digital world, e-safety is essential for all. As a school we are supported by the 'Switched On Online Safety' Scheme of work to ensure coverage of different areas of online safety as well as progression through the year groups.
The link below will take you to a useful online safety website. Thinkuknow aims to empower children and young people aged 5-17 to identify the risks they may face online and know where they can go for support.
Below are powerpoints we shared with the children encouraging them to think about being safe online at all times.
Please find below the Computing Learning Progression
