We follow our Online Safety Policy and government guidance on safeguarding children and protecting professionals in early years settings.
Supporting children to use technology safely
When children use technology at nursery, they are always supervised when using internet-connected devices. Our staff model safe and positive use of technology and help children begin to understand how to stay safe online and what to do if something makes them feel uncomfortable or if they have a concern.
We carefully consider the technology, apps and games available to children. Any apps or games downloaded onto nursery devices are reviewed and risk-assessed to make sure they are appropriate for the children's age and content.
Screen time is monitored and kept at an appropriate level. Technology is used as part of our learning programme and is chosen because it supports children’s development, rather than being used simply for entertainment.
Keeping our nursery devices secure
Keeping children’s information and our nursery systems secure is also an important part of online safety. Our devices are password protected and have screen locks, with staff expected to use strong and secure passwords.
Portable devices are stored safely in a lockable cabinet and are signed in and out of the office. Any problems or faults with computers or software are reported to the appropriate person immediately.
We also take steps to protect our systems from online threats, including using appropriate antivirus, anti-spyware and software-blocking measures.
Online safety for families
We understand that children’s use of technology continues at home, so we aim to support parents and primary caregivers with online safety. We can signpost families to appropriate sources of support and information to help them understand online safety and how to report concerns.
We also ensure that communication between nursery and families takes place professionally through our official communication channels, including the nursery email, telephone and Blossom platform.
Photos and videos
To help protect children's privacy, photographs, audio and video are only taken using nursery devices. These devices are not permitted in toilet or intimate care areas.
Online safety is part of our wider safeguarding responsibility, and we continually work to ensure that technology is used in a safe, appropriate and purposeful way to support children’s learning and development.
