Better Internet for Kids

On the afternoon of 18 April, participants had the opportunity to take part in various Open Space Technology (OST) sessions, each focusing on different topics. These sessions facilitated the exchange of best practices within the network and from external sources and provided numerous opportunities for discussion and debate. During this period, the Portuguese Safer Internet Centre (SIC) presented a session entitled "ZigZaga na Net – Promoting digital well-being in early childhood education and primary education” which focused on promoting digital well-being in early childhood and primary education.

"ZigZaga na Net" is a joint project between the SIC, SeguraNet (DGE) and Rádio ZigZag – RTP (Portuguese Public Television). The project takes a multi-faceted approach to teaching children how to use the internet safely. It includes a podcast series, digital books, a physical story, and colouring books. The centerpiece of the initiative is a 30-episode podcast created by Portuguese author fátima éffe, featuring stories of Benjamin, a digital leader, and his friends who guide their community through the digital world with educational tales. The narratives are designed not just to entertain but to educate, making significant strides in developing digital literacy among children.

The podcast and the books

The transition from text to audio required a lot of creativity and included engaging music, sound effects and relatable scenarios that captivated young listeners. A notable aspect of inclusivity was demonstrated through a special episode for deaf and mute students at Marroco School in Lisbon, which enhanced the accessibility of the podcasts.

The success of the podcast series led to the creation of a book “ZigZaga on the Net”, with illustrations by Ana Seixa, which was presented at an event attended by Sofia Rasgado, Portuguese Safer Internet Centre Coordinator, Lígia Azevedo from DGE and fátima éffe, the writer. The presentation included interactive challenges and quizzes for students to test their knowledge. The book was endorsed by the National Reading Plan Stamp, which confirmed its educational value.

Following the positive response, the project was expanded to include 33 additional podcast episodes and a second book, "ZigZaga on the Net. Novas Aventuras", which maintains the educational momentum and offers new creative challenges.

A roadshow was organised for this edition, which travelled from north to south through Portugal, stopping off in the Azores and Madeira and reaching various primary schools. The main objective of this initiative was to raise awareness of cyber safety practices and promote safer internet use, which was conveyed through the captivating narratives of the book. The result was overwhelmingly positive. Both children and teachers expressed their enjoyment of the book and Benjamin's adventures.

To further enrich the learning experience, 1,700 copies of the book were distributed to school libraries. This initiative aims to facilitate activities centered around the stories, encouraging interactive engagement within the school communities.

The colouring books

During Safer Internet Day 2024 celebrations in Viseu, a new resource, "ZigZaga na Net. Navegar a Cores", a digital colouring book for children aged three to six, was launched. Recognizing the need to engage this younger audience, the idea for a coloring book was born. It is based on the illustrations from the book "ZigZaga na Net. Novas Aventuras", presented in outline form. To accommodate the reading abilities of the target age group, the content from the book was simplified into short sentences that convey basic digital safety concepts. This approach not only educates children but also serves as an effective outreach tool for parents and educators. 

The launch of this innovative coloring book was marked by visits to three schools in the Viseu region. During these visits, engaging classroom activities were conducted to introduce the book and each child was gifted a copy of it.

A virtual roadshow is planned for the future in collaboration with the Portuguese Association of Educators. This roadshow will cross the country from north to south, including the Azores and Madeira. Awareness packs with posters and presentations on key topics will be distributed to increase the reach and impact of this initiative.

The "Zig Zaga na net" podcasts are pivotal in raising awareness among students and the broader school community through School Radios and Television on Information and Communication Clubs. Moreover, these educational resources play a significant role in teacher training programs and the Digital Academy for Parents—a program aimed at enhancing digital empowerment for parents with the aid of volunteer students.

In addition to teacher training, the "Zig Zaga na net" podcasts and e-books are extensively used in accredited Digital Citizenship teacher training programs. They are also distributed through the 91 Association of School Training Centres, ensuring a wide dissemination and impact across educational platforms.

"ZigZaga na Net" has effectively combined entertainment and education to meet the digital challenges of today's children. In a joint effort, "ZigZaga na Net" is constantly evolving and it shows the power of co-creation and creative collaboration in improving digital literacy.

Find out more about the work of the Portuguese Safer Internet Centre, including its awareness raising, helpline, hotline and youth participation services – or find similar information for Safer Internet Centres throughout Europe.