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Essential rules for staying safe while exploring websites.
Imagine the internet is a giant, magical library with billions of books and games. But did you know some of those books are hidden traps? How can you explore this world while staying safe like a superhero?
The internet is a very big place, almost like a giant city. Just like you wouldn't walk across a busy street alone, you should never go online without asking a Trusted Adult first. A trusted adult is someone like a parent, a teacher, or a grandparent. They are your 'Internet Co-Pilots.' They help you find the right websites that are fun and safe for your age. Before you click that power button or open an app, remember the most important rule: Ask permission every single time!
Quick Check
Who is someone you can ask before you go online?
Answer
A trusted adult, like a parent or a teacher.
How do you know if a website is a good place to be? Safe websites for kids usually have bright colors, fun characters, and games that are easy to understand. One secret 'super sign' is the Lock Icon located at the very top of the screen in the address bar. This lock means the website has a security guard protecting the information. If a site looks messy, has lots of blinking ads, or asks for your Private Information (like your phone number or where you live), it is not a safe place for kids.
Let's look at two websites: 1. Website A has a picture of a cartoon puppy, a small Lock Icon at the top, and a 'Play' button. 2. Website B is full of blurry text and a big red button that says 'GIVE US YOUR NAME TO WIN A TOY!'
Website A is the safe choice because it has the lock and doesn't ask for your private name!
Quick Check
What is the name of the small symbol at the top of the screen that shows a site is secure?
Answer
The Lock Icon.
Sometimes, even when we are careful, we might see something that makes us feel 'yucky' or scared. This might be a mean message from a stranger or a scary picture that pops up out of nowhere. If you get that 'uh-oh' feeling in your tummy, use your Stop, Close, and Tell superpower! 1. Stop what you are doing immediately. 2. Close the laptop or turn off the tablet screen. 3. Tell a trusted adult right away. You are never in trouble for finding something scary; telling an adult makes you a hero!
Imagine you are playing a game and a chat box pops up. A person you don't know says, 'Hi! What is your real name? Let's be friends!' 1. Do not type back. 2. Immediately Close the game. 3. Go find your mom, dad, or teacher and Tell them what happened.
You are watching a video about science. Suddenly, the screen turns gray and a loud noise plays with a message saying 'YOUR COMPUTER IS BROKEN! CLICK HERE TO FIX IT!' 1. This is a trick called a 'scareware' pop-up. 2. Do NOT click the button. 3. Stop touching the mouse, Close the lid, and Tell an adult so they can fix the screen safely.
What should you do before you start using a tablet or computer?
Which of these is 'Private Information' that you should NOT share online?
If you see something scary online, you should turn off the screen and tell a grown-up.
Review Tomorrow
Tomorrow, try to remember the three steps of the 'Stop, Close, and Tell' rule. Can you say them out loud?
Practice Activity
Sit with an adult and look at a website you like. Can you find the Lock Icon together?