I am a passionate believer in the power of the internet to push our economy forward and to enable communities to come together in new ways. Indeed the digital sector in Wales is growing rapidly – creating jobs, boosting growth and confirming our position as a hub of technology excellence. And the fantastic Barry Ideas Bank, set up by Andy Green, is using the internet to provide a space for local people to connect and co-operate to make Barry a better place.
All disruptive technological innovations have serious downsides however, and we know that the internet is no exception. As the internet opens up opportunities for us to buy and sell, it provides opportunities for fraud and scams. As communication becomes easier than ever before, so does bullying and stalking. It is the youngest users of the internet, who often have greater digital skills than their parents but lack experience of human nature, or the ability to spot a scam, who are often most at risk.
This is why I arranged for Google’s ‘Internet Legends’ to come to Romilly Primary School a couple of weeks ago and deliver a high-impact morning assembly designed to give children the tools to stay and get on with each other online. The ‘Internet Legends’ explained how to control various social media settings and talked the children through four simple maxims; think before you share, protect your stuff, check it’s for real and respect each other.
The ‘Internet Legends’ were set up in conjunction with family champions Parent Zone, and worked with child psychology experts to design an assembly that would be remembered by pupils. I can say with certainty that it was an assembly with some of the highest production values I have ever seen. Not only were there punchy graphics alongside professional sound and lighting, it was fully interactive – with the young audience voting ‘yes’ or ‘no’ using foam fingers in response to questions. I had the chance to quiz the children afterwards and it became very clear that the important messages were received and understood.
If any parent or teacher would like more information on explaining internet safety to young children they should visit https://www.google.co.uk/safetycenter/families/legends/