Staying Safe Online

A short video on how to support pre-school children online

Watch the video and note key messages.

How could you make use of videos like this one in your setting??

I recommend that you share this video with parents – e.g. by uploading onto your settings website or online portal.

The Jessie & Friends animations are age-appropriate and do not depict any situations where adults communicate with children online. Instead, they show safe, non-scary situations which help young viewers identify things which might worry them online. 

For example, in Episode 3 an older sister tricks three younger children into losing an online game. In this way young viewers learn how to identify online behaviour which is Ônot rightÕ, and how to get help by telling an adult they trust. 

This learning will help keep children safe from many risky situations which they may encounter online.

Episode 1 Watching Videos (aimed at children aged 4-5 years) (4.58 mins)

The series begins with Jessie and her dog, named Dog, as they watch videos online using a tablet. 

Together they learn that while the internet can be enjoyable and fun, there are sometimes things online that can be upsetting or scary. 

Jessie learns that she can always speak to a grown-up who will be able to help her and put down the tablet if there is anything she sees or hears online that makes her feel worried, scared or sad.

A short video (under 2 minutes) aimed at children in the early years to encourage them to talk to a trusted grown up if they ever feel worried, anxious or scared when online.

Discussion points

Children should not be left online without supervision

The importance of age appropriate apps

The risks associated with pop ups and phishing

The importance of having a trusted grown up the child can go to when they are worried or scared.