A safer Internet - young people asked !

On 12th February a group of young people from all over Europe met in Brussels to give their views on how institutions should act to make the use of social networks safer for them.

The 'Safer Internet Day' was part of a global drive to promote a safer Internet for all users, especially young people. In 2008, the European Commission focuses particularly on the experiences and involvement of young people.
In celebration of Safer Internet Day 2008, the European Commission organises a Youth Forum on Safer Internet in Brussels where youth (14-17 year olds) from Austria, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Netherlands, Sweden .

One of the outcomes of the forum is: 'Based on these discussions the youth will identify the 10 most important online safety tips for their age group.' I wonder if they will follow adult trends or will the young have something really innovative to offer?

The BBC's report was written by Ammani,12, from West Yorkshire who was one of a group of children from across Europe invited by the European Commission to a conference to talk about children and online safety.

I find myself slightly worried the article and wonder about ( as one always would in these cases) validity of the group format and what can be read into their comments.
'We all believe that mobile and internet dangers are serious' was one of the comments and accepting that the forum was about safety there is no mention of excitement, stimulation, joy of connected communities etc. I suppose a forum drawn together to talk about safety will have this focus but when will we see the european Commission draw together a group to talk about the tremendous advantages to be gained from social (and other) networking.

Earlier this week Becta held a conference on a similar theme: Safeguarding children in a digital world. The presentations are now available and looking at the programme I have high hopes of some creative thinking from such a connected group.

Becta have produced a guidance document : Safeguarding children in a digital world: Developing an LSCB e-safety strategy