In today’s digital age, kids are spending more time than ever on the internet. While the internet can be a great resource for learning, communication, and entertainment, it also comes with potential risks such as cyberbullying, online predators, and exposure to inappropriate content. That’s why it’s important for parents and educators to teach kids how to stay safe online, and one great resource for doing so is Google’s “Be Internet Awesome” program.
What is Be Internet Awesome?
Be Internet Awesome is a program created by Google to help kids become safer and more responsible online. The program is designed for kids ages 7-12 and includes a variety of resources such as a curriculum for educators, an interactive game for kids, and a family guide for parents. The program focuses on five key areas: smart, alert, strong, kind, and brave.
- Smart: The smart component teaches kids how to be aware of their online surroundings and to identify phishing and scams. It also teaches them how to create strong passwords and keep personal information safe.
- Alert: The alert component teaches kids how to recognize and avoid online threats such as cyberbullying and online predators. It also teaches them how to report inappropriate content and behavior.
- Strong: The strong component teaches kids how to be resilient and handle online challenges with confidence. It also teaches them how to be good digital citizens and use technology for positive purposes.
- Kind: The kind component teaches kids how to interact with others online in a respectful and positive way. It also teaches them how to stand up to cyberbullying and support others who may be experiencing it.
- Brave: The brave component teaches kids how to be confident and speak up when they see something online that doesn’t seem right. It also teaches them how to be responsible digital citizens and make good choices online.
Why is Be Internet Awesome Important?
In today’s digital world, it’s essential that kids learn how to stay safe and responsible online. The internet can be a great resource for learning, communication, and entertainment, but it also comes with potential risks. Be Internet Awesome provides a comprehensive and engaging program for teaching kids how to navigate the online world safely and responsibly. By educating kids about online safety and promoting good digital citizenship, we can help ensure that they have positive experiences online and avoid potential harm.
How Can I Get Involved?
If you’re a parent or educator, there are many ways to get involved with Be Internet Awesome. You can start by exploring the program’s resources and using them to teach kids about online safety. You can also encourage your school to adopt the Be Internet Awesome curriculum and share the program with other parents and educators. By working together, we can help create a safer and more responsible online community for kids.
Conclusion
The internet is an essential part of modern life, and it’s important for kids to learn how to use it safely and responsibly. Be Internet Awesome provides a great program for teaching kids how to navigate the online world with confidence and resilience. By promoting good digital citizenship and educating kids about online safety, they help to ensure that they have positive experiences online and avoid potential harm.
