Today marks Safer Internet Day and this year's theme is 'Create, connect and share respect: A better internet starts with you'.
"It is a call for action for every stakeholder to play their part in creating not only a safer internet but a better internet, an internet where everyone is empowered to use technology responsibly, respectfully, critically and creatively," the Office of the Commissioner for Children said in a statement.
The Office said that it "is committed to creating a better internet and forms part of the BeSmartOnline! Campaign which brings together the Malta Communications Authority, Agenzija Appogg and the Directorate for Learning and Assessment Programmes within the Ministry for Education and Employment. This initiative strives to safeguard children online and to ensure that they have positive online experiences. In order to commemorate this day several initiatives are being undertaken. Schools have been encouraged to organise activities for children. Over 30 schools have committed to celebrating this day by organising special assemblies, talks by professionals, lessons dedicated to online safety, crafts and storytelling. A poster highlighting children's digital rights will also be disseminated amongst all year 5 and year 6 students in State, Church and Independent Schools. "
"The Internet Service providers in Malta are key stakeholders in the creation of a better internet and they offer continuous support. In order to mark Safer Internet Day, they have joined forces with the BeSmartOline! team to distribute a leaflet dealing with the growing number of toys connected to the internet - the internet of toys. This leaflet aims to help parents cope with the challenges of this new environment. It will provide parents with a checklist of what to consider when it comes to safety of children playing with such toys. "
Various efforts are made in order to reach parents, carers, relatives and other significant persons in the lives of children and young people. "To this end, a stand will be set up at The Point shopping mall on the 12th of February between 10:00am and 4:00pm in order to disseminate information and create awareness. So anyone interested in receiving information or asking questions may visit the team."
"According to a research study carried out by Nominet, entitled Share with Care, the average parent shares nearly 1,500 photos of their children before their 5th birthday. The BeSmartOnline! Initiative will be disseminating a flyer in various households in Malta and Gozo with the aim of encouraging parents/guardians to think before sharing certain photos of their children online. Once something is shared online it is permanent."
"The internet offers many opportunities for children and we all should take an active role in encouraging them to explore these opportunities and to use the new technologies to develop their interests and their talents."