[vc_row padding_top_multiplier=””][vc_column][vc_row_inner padding_top_multiplier=””][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][crocal_title heading_tag=”h1″]
[/crocal_title][crocal_single_image image=”10914″ image_shape=”radius-10″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]The latest guidelines regarding safeguarding and welfare in internet safety have recently been updated. Here we give you a summary of the key points mentioned, and if you wish to read the full article, please visit this link.
What children in the early years are doing online
Research shows that children up to 5 years old are now more digitally savvy than ever before and are moving away from watching television opting for streaming services.
Some important statics are:
- 73% of children (aged 3-4) use apps like YouTube Kids regularly
- Only 23% of children (aged 3-4) play video games online
The impact of device use on children’s development in the early years
Benefits
- Development of digital skills
- Improvement of numeracy and literacy skills
- Opportunities to promote creativity and learning
- An opportunity for language development
- A better understanding of their world
Challenges
- Potential impact on children’s ability to be in charge of their emotions
- Displacement of activities that promote social interactions vital for development
- Possible risks of exposure to inappropriate content
Screen time for children in the early years
According to the Guidance for parents and clinicians published by Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, the right amount of time will vary between families.
- Screen time is linked to the needs of the child (as long as sleep and social activities aren’t negatively affected)
- Content + Context are essential in the children getting the most out of their online use
Advice for early years practitioners
Using technology in your setting:
- Outline the ways you support the use of technology in your setting
- Get parental consent before sharing images of children and store them securely
- Think about what you post – don’t share personal details of staff or children/parents
- Adhere to social media policies that cover staffs’ personal use of social media platforms
- Use safety settings to be sure content/apps are age-appropriate
- Monitor children while using devices
- Support children using devices should they need it
Teaching children about internet safety
- Demonstrate examples of safe use so they know what it looks like
- Use educational apps that will help the development of skills
- Communicate with parents and share advice on safe online use at home
For further information visit the Internet Safety article.[/vc_column_text][crocal_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row]
