Safer Internet Day 2017 is right around the corner. On the 7th February 2017, this global campaign will encourage everyone to ‘Be the Change: Unite for a better internet.’
The day is a great opportunity to inspire children and young people to use technology in a safe and positive way. For those working with young people with SEN, we have highlighted some new and existing free resources that can help deliver Safer Internet Day activities, with a focus on exploring the power of image and video online.
Educational resources for Safer Internet Day
- Our Education Packs have been designed to suit a range of different age groups. Lesson plans can be adapted to suit the needs of different students, quick activities can be delivered in short bursts and assemblies can be run to engage all young people.
- We have also created a number of short films on SID TV that can be used as conversation starters. The age –tailored videos can be used as a great visual resource, and maybe even an inspiration for young people to create their own. The films are also available in British Sign Language.
- Another creative resource is our photography project. Young people can choose from a variety of different briefs to create their own images and use this as a way to communicate a powerful message. For children aged 6-11, briefs that might be most suitable are ‘Being Me’ and ‘Personal Information Clues.’ For young people aged over 11, the briefs ‘Be the Change’ and ‘Seeing is not always believing’ might be most suitable. Like all our resources, all the briefs can be adapted to meet different needs.
- To inspire others about the positive use of technology, young people can use our #giveasmile template to create their own emoji or share a positive message about being online.
Existing resources
- The STAR toolkit features practical advice and teaching resources designed specifically for educators working with young people with autism spectrum disorders aged 11-18. They can also be adapted for children aged 11 and under. Each of the four sections focus on finding the balance between online and offline interaction.
- The ‘Be Safe and Smart Online’ resources haven been created in partnership with The National Deaf Children’s Society to help and support deaf young people. Lesson plans and posters are available to support and remind young people to stay safe online.
How else can schools get involved?
- Engage your wider parent and carer community by running a workshop or sharing information (use the Parent and Carer Pack for Safer Internet Day).
- Share how you plan to celebrate Safer Internet Day by joining the supporters list and sharing on social media.
With less than two weeks to go till Safer Internet Day, we’re looking forward to seeing everyone getting involved in sharing positive messages and using technology safely.
