The internet is everywhere and it is vital that we teach our kids how to safely engage in this virtual environment. However, it can feel like nagging sometimes when adults are constantly lecturing students about "do this" and "don't do that". To make it easier, kids can be engaged and taught internet safety at the same time through fun games and game-based activities.
1. Safe Online Surfing
These engaging and fun games come from the FBI-SOS website. They promote online safety through age-appropriate games (for third to eighth grades) that teach different skills to help make them a better cyber citizen. Students will enter their grade level them complete different island activities that promote online safety.
Learn more: Safe Online Surfing
2. Cloud Quest
The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) has an online safety education program that includes videos and activities that are grade-level appropriate. The games teach students how to be safe online and empower them to determine when to be suspicious.
Learn more: Missing Kids
3. Cyber-Five
Hippo and Hedgehog teach younger students about the internet rules - the "Cyber Five". It is a simple animation that includes quiz questions at the end. This is intended for a younger audience.
Learn more: ABCYa
4. Thatsnotcool.com
This site includes interactive games and activities and is meant for older kids - ages 13-18. It teaches them the importance of dating and digital safety. It also includes an adult ally tool, which is a great resource for teachers or families.
Learn more: That's Not Cool
5. Internet Safety Lesson Plans
Common Sense has a K-12 curriculum, which includes lesson plans and games. It goes beyond basic digital citizenship and teaches students to think critically when using the internet - from the importance of strong passwords to privacy and chatting safely online. It is a priority for teachers as it covers all the areas students need to learn to safely surf.
Learn more: Common Sense
6. Natterhub
Prepare students for life on the internet using this platform. Natterhub is used in the classroom to teach online safety. It mirrors social media apps but is all about teaching students to be safe online.
Learn more: Natterhub
7. Internet safety jigsaw puzzle
This jigsaw puzzle by Twinkl is great for beginner internet users or English language learner students. It is a simple game to introduce the basics of internet safety. Twinkl also offers other resources like posters and activities related to cyber citizenship.
Learn more: Twinkl
8. Patrol Squad or POPS
Patrol Squad or POPSis an education program for grades 2-5. It has fun games and activities that teach students about online safety, data privacy, cyber security, and password strength.
Learn more: Online Privacy Matters
9. Finn Goes Online
If you are looking for a fun game that is an application, "Finn Goes Online" is a good place to start. This internet safety game is great for those 7 and up. It follows Finn the fox on an adventure as he learns about password safety, cyberbullying, and more!
Learn more: Cyber Security for Children
10. Band Runner
The National Crime Agency created an online game called "Band Runner" for students aged 8-10. It teaches students how to stay safe online through interactive gameplay.
Learn more: Think U Know
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