Better Internet for Kids

Each of these characters is struggling with a situation where they are not feeling well or comfortable, often linked to online issues or a runaway situation. It’s up to the players to help these new students by getting to know the characters, discussing possible actions, looking for confidants and people they can trust to talk to. 

Everything revolves around the large game board on which we see the characters move. While doing this, players should keep a close eye on their character's development and feelings. The goal is to make the characters feel as good as possible at the end of the game and that no character decides to run away. Pupils brainstorm together what the children can do for each other, who they can turn to, and what professional support organisations exist for more information or help.

The topics covered by the game include children running away, finding a trustworthy person to turn to in case of need (a Max), internet safety and online security, sexual exploitation of children through non-consensual sexting, sextortion, grooming.

At the end of the game, the students receive a Max kit: a set of two key chains that the children can use to ask someone close to them to be their Max.

The game is supervised by one of Child Focus' 40 specially trained volunteers. 5th and 6th grade classes can apply to play the game at training.clicksafe.be.

Find out more about the work and initiatives of the Belgian Safer Internet Centre or find similar information for Safer Internet Centres throughout Europe. On the Better Internet for Kids (BIK) platform, additional useful tools for parents, carers and teachers can be found in the resource repository and in the Guide to apps section.