A quick reference guide to remind practitioners why internet safety is important and where they can find more information and how they can meet best practice in their safeguarding of children in their care.
Why do we need to consider internet safety for under fives?
Research shows that children are moving away from watching TV, opting instead to watch video sharing platforms. According to a recent OFCOM report 72% of children aged 3-4 years are regularly online.
As Early Years Practitioners it is essential that you help keep the children in your setting safe. Even if you do not use online devices in your setting, it is likely they will be using them at home with friends and family.
The OFSTED Inspection Handbook (September 2023) outlines the importance of practitioners ensuring they safeguard children online.
The risks
When thinking about the risks of online use by young children, remember the three C’s:
CONTENT what they may see
CONTACT who might communicate with them
CONDUCT how they might behave
Keeping it safe in your setting
Outline how you will support children’s use of technology – you may wish to combine this with your safeguarding policy.
Use device safety settings to ensure apps and content are age appropriate.
Monitor and support children whilst they are using devices.
Think about what you post online as a practitioner and how this might impact your role, this includes ensuring that you do not share details about children, parents or other practitioners and adhering to any social media policies which cover staff’s personal use of social media platforms.
Ensure you get parental consent before creating or sharing images of children and store them safely.
Teach children in your care
Make them aware of what safe use of technology looks like.
Choose educational apps and platforms that help them to develop their skills.
Have conversations and share advice with parents to encourage safe online use in the home.