**Ask me about Funded hours
The internet is an incredible resource for children to access, support for their homework, chat with friends, etc, but it can also be a very dangerous place for them. They can be exposed to inappropriate material, harassment and bullying, viruses and hackers, and be conned into giving away financial information. They can also be vulnerable to online grooming by paedophiles.
As a Childminder I offer children the opportunity to use the computer and the internet; however, I have introduced a range of procedures to ensure their safety.
· I have a filter on my computer that blocks out most inappropriate material
· I do not permit the children to go onto chat rooms or social networking sites
· I talk to the children about the websites they are using
· I am always nearby so can keep an eye out on what websites they are visiting
· I check the history on the computer regularly
· I discuss with the children the importance of keeping safe online, not forwarding chain letters, not talking to people they don’t know, not giving out personal information that could enable people to identify them, to tell me if they are worried about anything and to never arrange to meet anyone they have spoken to online.
If you would rather your child was not allowed access to the internet then please let me know.
I am also aware of the need to limit the time children spend on computers and will develop strategies to ensure that they spend a balance of time engaged in ICT and other activities.
If you have any concerns regarding this policy then please do not hesitate to contact me.
Some excellent websites provide advice on internet safety both aimed at parents/carers and children of different ages, including videos to watch and quizzes.