How We Got Cyber Smart: A book about how to stay safe online
What’s inside...
How We Got Cyber Smart is a book that addresses cyber safety, cyber bullying, and online safety for elementary school-aged children. It follows the adventures of two kids, Olivia and Jack, as they navigate the online world. The book tells the story of how they became cyber smart and dealt with an online bully. It provides practical advice for parents and children on how to protect themselves online and ensure their safety. The information is based on realistic online events and is presented in a way that children can understand. It highlights the challenges of cyber safety in today's world and shows how parents can help their children navigate their online experiences. This book is a valuable resource for parents, caregivers, and teachers to initiate discussions about online safety and establish safe online habits. More information and resources on cyber safety can be found at howwegotcybersmart.com.
Age
7-10
Length
30 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways you can stay safe online, as mentioned in the book?
Why do you think it's important to keep personal information private on the internet?
Can you think of a time when you or someone you know had to use cyber smarts?
How would you handle a situation where someone you don’t know contacts you online?
What steps can you take to make sure your online experiences are positive and safe?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they already know about internet safety to gauge their understanding and tailor the discussion.
While reading, pause at key moments to let your child predict what might happen next and discuss why being cyber smart is crucial in those scenarios.
Relate the book's scenarios to real-life situations to help your child make connections between the story and their own online experiences.
After reading, engage your child in role-playing exercises where they can practice responding to different online interactions.
Encourage your child to ask questions throughout the reading and discussion to foster an open dialogue about their thoughts and feelings regarding online safety.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Internet Safety
Explanation: The book teaches children the importance of keeping personal information private and recognizing safe websites.
Real-World Application: Children will learn to navigate the internet cautiously, differentiate between secure and risky websites, and avoid sharing sensitive information online.
Example Lesson: Recognizing Online Bullying
Explanation: Characters in the story face challenges with cyberbullying, showing the emotional impact it can have.
Real-World Application: This prepares kids to identify cyberbullying and encourages them to speak to a trusted adult if they encounter or witness it.
Example Lesson: The Importance of a Trusted Adult
Explanation: The book emphasizes how crucial it is to consult a trusted adult when facing online uncertainties or dangers.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to seek guidance from parents or teachers when they feel uncomfortable or unsure about their online interactions.
Example Lesson: Responsible Online Behavior
Explanation: Through its narrative, the book promotes respectful and kind communication online.
Real-World Application: This lesson will help children understand their role in creating a safer online environment by practicing politeness and respect in their digital interactions.
Example Lesson: Creating Healthy Digital Habits
Explanation: The story discusses setting limits on screen time and the importance of engaging in offline activities.
Real-World Application: Children will be motivated to balance their online life with real-world activities and understand the value of face-to-face interactions and physical play.