Safe Traveling!
The fourth grade students worked alongside students in kindergarten, first and second grade to investigate the SMART rules. Developed by Childnet International, their KidSMART programme allowed them to watch and discuss being SMART on the Internet. Together with their younger partners they wrote messages on what they had learnt to send to children elsewhere in the world. In addition, the third and fourth grade students were introduced to an online resource called the Digital Compass by Common Sense Media which allowed them to explore the world through the eyes of various characters and contemplate how to respond to different situations.
Throughout the month, we are drawing parallels between riding a bike and using technology. We all agree that it is fun to ride a bike but children aren’t just given a bike and told to ride it. In the early stages, parents run alongside, training wheels are purchased and safety equipment like helmets and elbow pads are worn. Safe clothes and good footwear are essential and rules about where and when to ride are taught. Over time, children are allowed to ride further from their parents with training wheels removed and elbow pads not so essential. We all agree that this newfound independence means parents of lower school children still need to be aware of where and when their children are using their bikes. Accidents will happen, and children will ride where they are not supposed to. Parents are there to pick them up and help them back on the bike, wiser until the next time. |
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