Do you think the internet is helpful or harmful for children?
Nine out of ten UK parents believe the Internet creates incredible learning opportunities for kids however; more than three in five parents would welcome more guidance on how to help their children get the best out of the web, according to new online research by YouGov.
In response to the findings, the global #1 virtual world for kids has launched Club Penguin’s Guide to the Wonderful World of the Web. Written by parents for parents, the guide aims to help them use the internet as a tool to foster their children’s love of learning.
Dr Rachel O’Connell, internet safety expert and lead-author of the guide said: “The pace of digital progress means that learning to use new technologies is increasingly an area in which kids are racing ahead of their parents. We know that parents trust and listen to advice from other mums and dads, with nearly a third saying that they have used the Internet to connect with other parents.
“Club Penguin’s Guide to the Wonderful World of the Web is set to be a valuable resource for parents, acting as a forum for parenting tips and advice. The aim is for it to provide a helping hand to mums, like myself, who are trying to keep up with the pace of digital change,” she added.
The Internet is the most powerful tool we have ever had to inspire children to learn in new ways, and broaden their horizons. Researching new subjects online leads kids in new directions...
Bringing together contributors from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, including BBC presenters Gabby Logan and Neil Oliver, MP Zac Goldsmith and child blogging star Martha Payne, author of NeverSeconds, Club Penguin’s Guide to the Wonderful World of the Web could prove to be that invaluable resource that parents are seeking for online inspiration.
Author of the ‘Play’ chapter, Gabby Logan said: “The Internet and the way children learn about the world around them are changing at such a fast pace, they are transforming the way kids find new passions and develop life skills. The web has also revolutionized the way kids are able to play and take part in sports: allowing them to connect with coaches and athletes, view and learn routines and locate their local sports club.
“The amazing Games we had this summer meant that my kids were constantly online, checking out new sports they had seen on TV, and finding out quirky facts about all the different rules and athletes – it was a great learning experience!
“This new guide is a fantastic tool for parents, to help them find the best online child friendly content, and make sure their children are keeping safe at the same time,” she said.
The eight chapters of Club Penguin’s Guide to the Wonderful World of the Web will be released in stages over the coming months via www.disney.co.uk/clubpenguin. Parents will be able to comment, post and feedback on the report, creating a place where parents can hear from their peers best experiences and ideas. Additional contributors include child psychologist Laverne Antrobus and CEO of Childnet International, Will Gardner.
The online research, with more than 2000 respondent parents, also revealed that 70 per cent of parents surveyed wish the Internet had been invented when they were growing up.
Neil Oliver, historian and presenter of the recent BBC series ‘The Vikings’ and author of the ‘Explore’ chapter added: “The Internet is the most powerful tool we have ever had to inspire children to learn in new ways, and broaden their horizons. Researching new subjects online leads kids in new directions and encourages them to find out about different topics.
“This is great – but it’s our role as parents to guide their learning, ensuring they stay focused and gather reliable information. That’s why guides such as this are invaluable for mums and dads,” he said.
Lucy Woodward, Director of Club Penguin UK, said: “Created by three dads, their vision for Club Penguin was to create a safe place online, where their kids could have loads of fun. True to this original vision, at Club Penguin we are passionate about ensuring kids have safe, fun online experiences and that the Internet becomes a tool to aid in their development and learning.
“We hope that mums and dads from across the country will share their own stories and advice on how to make the most of the internet with kids – from helping with homework to inspiring creativity and expanding horizons; the possibilities are endless,” she said.
Do you think the internet is helpful or harmful for children? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below or tweet us @FemaleFirst_UK
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