Keeping Kids Safe on the Internet

Summary

In this engaging script, Alex learns about online safety from his mom while playing the game 'World Jam.' The conversation covers the importance of not sharing personal information, choosing non-revealing usernames, and establishing a secret safety word. Alex's experience with an online friend, Riley, highlights the risks of oversharing and the permanence of online content. The script concludes with a cautionary tale about meeting online acquaintances in person, emphasizing the need to always prioritize safety and trust in adults.

Takeaways

• 🕹️ Engage in online games with caution, as they can be a fun way to interact with others but also pose potential risks.
• 🔒 Be mindful of privacy when online; avoid sharing personal information such as your name, phone number, or address.
• 🤔 Educate children about the potential dangers of the internet, including identity theft and information leakage.
• 🛑 Change usernames to something less revealing to protect personal identity and avoid giving away too much information.
• 👀 Encourage children to ask permission from parents or guardians before downloading games or creating online profiles.
• 🔑 Establish a secret safety word with a parent or guardian for emergencies to ensure trust and safety.
• 🚫 Refrain from sharing personal struggles or problems with people online, as they may not be genuine or trustworthy.
• 🙅‍♂️ Do not reveal personal information such as school, location, or activities to strangers online.
• 🤝 Be cautious about forming online friendships and sharing too much information with new acquaintances.
• 📢 Remember that anything posted online can be accessed by anyone and may remain there permanently.
• ⚠️ If feeling uncomfortable or in danger online or in person, seek help from a trusted adult immediately.

Q & A

What game is Alex playing and what are its features?

Alex is playing a game called 'World Jam'. It's an online game where players can communicate with others worldwide, trade animals with costumes, and play games together.

Why is Alex's mom concerned about his online interactions?

Alex's mom is concerned about online safety, as people on the internet can potentially figure out personal information and misuse it.

What advice does Alex's mom give him to stay safe online?

Alex's mom advises him not to give out any personal information, such as his name, phone number, or address, and to change his username to something less descriptive.

What is the significance of the 'secret word' discussed by Alex and his mom?

The 'secret word' is a safety measure used for emergencies. It helps Alex to verify if someone is trustworthy, especially when being picked up by someone other than a family member.

What is the secret word chosen by Alex and his mom?

The secret word they chose is 'meatball', inspired by the meal they had that night.

Why does Alex feel more comfortable talking to Riley online than his classmates?

Alex feels more comfortable with Riley because he believes his online friend would never make fun of him and would understand his situation, unlike his classmates who sometimes are mean to him.

What personal information does Alex inadvertently reveal to Riley?

Alex reveals his name, the fact that he is a sheep, and that he goes to All Animal Elementary School.

Why does Alex decide not to meet Riley in person at the park?

Alex decides not to meet Riley because Riley does not know the secret safe word, which raises suspicion and makes Alex feel uncomfortable.

What lesson does the script teach about sharing personal struggles online?

The script teaches that one should not open up about personal struggles or problems to people online, as people are not always who they say they are.

What is the final reminder given to Alex by his mom before she leaves him?

Alex's mom reminds him not to talk to strangers, to remember the safe word, and to stay where he is.

What is the importance of the final reminder about online permanence?

The reminder emphasizes that anything posted online can be accessed by anyone and remains there forever, stressing the importance of being cautious about what one shares online.