Library’s internet safety workshops prove popular

The latest – looking at online safety for children – saw all 15 slots snapped up by parents.

The session was led by Vraj Reddy, who approached the library last year and offered to help lead the talks.

He said when it came to keeping children safe online, it was like trying to bake a cake, but only trying to add the sugar at the end. In the same way, it does not work to try and teach children internet safety after they are already computer literate.

He said it was important to teach children from the start of using technology about being safe online and looking after their data.

‘From four years old, children are using technology themselves,’ he said.

‘Just like you teach children not to play with fire, you need to take the same precautions online with the people you speak to and what you share.

‘There is a lot of discussion around GDPR and that’s come about because people do not realise how valuable their personal data is.’

One mum at the session has children aged seven and nine, and said it had been very useful and helped her understand the importance of communication.

‘You need to have constant discussion with children about their online activities and what they are doing and take an interest in it,’ she said.

The sessions were launched last September and since then have largely been held monthly.

They have looked at a range of topics, including phishing and passwords.

Senior library assistant Adam Bayfiend said every session had been fully booked.

‘It is very much part of what we are trying to do with the library service,’ he said.

He said that parents were keen to see a similar session run, but instead with children, and they were going to look into that.

He said he was very grateful to Mr Reddy for his help.

n The next session will be held between 11am and 12.30pm on Saturday 11 May and will look at phishing and online scams.

The session is free, but must be booked in advance at www.library.gg/events.