Better Internet for Kids

As part of the digital transition plan in Portugal, schools must promote innovation by integrating digital technologies into various curricular areas in primary and secondary education, with the aim of continuously improving the quality of learning. In this context, parents and guardians should be able to monitor their children's school life, especially regarding the safe use of digital technologies and the internet.

The CIS Digital Camp, organised by the Portuguese Safer Internet Centre and its partners, took place from 24 to 28 July 2023 in the city of Portalegre. For five days, 46 secondary school and vocational school students were able to learn how to use the internet safely.

Safer Internet Day (SID) is just around the corner, scheduled for Tuesday, February 6, 2024. On this day, millions of people around the world will unite under the theme "Together for a Better Internet" for the 21st edition of this significant event. We invite you to join the movement and help us ensure that the internet is a place of opportunities for children and young people where they can create, engage, and share positively and freely.

The Maltese online abuse helpline has received about 20 reports with ages as young as 11 years old. The Safer Internet Centre seeks to promote online safety and offers support to victims of online abuse.

The 2023 edition of the Media 'Ukkie' (or 'Toddler') Days campaign took place from 24 to 31 March. Throughout the campaign, countless parents were assisted with tips, tools, and advice. The new 'Iene Miene Media' study was also presented, full of insights into how parents experience media education for their little ones. In this article, the Dutch Safer Internet Centre looks back on a successful campaign with a selection of highlights.

Portugal was once again represented at the Safer Internet Forum (SIF) 2023. In this edition, under the theme "Empowering YOUth with skills for the Digital Decade," four young Portuguese individuals aged between 15 and 19 participated. Two joined the BIK Youth Panel; one was a member of the Youth Advisory Group (SIF YAG), and another attended as a delegate. Playing an active role not only in the preparation but also during the Forum itself, they all provided very positive feedback on their experience.

This year, 7 February marked Safer Internet Day worldwide—a day celebrated in more than 150 countries to promote the safe and responsible use of the internet. In Malta, a campaign was developed around the topic of sexting.

Cyberbullying remains the most common type of abuse that occurs on the internet. The Maltese Safer Internet Centre alone receives approximately 60 reports per month regarding such online risk. This case study examines the case of bullying following an already difficult family situation.

The online counselling services by Nummer gegen Kummer were first launched in 2003 and are, therefore, one of the oldest counselling services for children and young people available in Germany. Twenty years later, thousands of sessions have been conducted, and the organisation has collected a lot of achievements.

BeSmartOnline – part of the Maltese Safer Internet Centre, shares insights on things everyone – but especially children and young people – should be wary of when posting online.