Launch of new resources for Hector's World
Hectors World is an innovative New Zealand charity doing great work both here and overseas.
Their website is free and has a fantastic range of material aimed at keeping children and families safe on the internet.
As a parent of three young kids I know how quickly they can learn and pick up on new technology, often faster than their parents can. My 18 month old son already walks around talking on the phone.
Today we are here to launch a new series of programmes for Hectors World on computer security, introducing children to topics like viruses and strong passwords.
This is a great programme because it's not about lecturing children - it empowers them to take responsibility for themselves and their family.
These new programmes teach children to use their skills and knowledge to protect not only themselves, but their friends and families. These are great messages for young children as they start their lives online.
Through Hector's World, children can learn how to stay safe on the internet through a series of episodes featuring animated underwater characters.
And while it deals with serious issues, it does so in a fun and interactive way with great animation, music and fun characters.
It even has material for us grown-ups, with lesson plans for teachers and discussion points for parents.
The Government's Community Partnership Fund through the Department of Internal Affairs has generously sponsored the creation of these new resources. A lot of hard work has gone into this by many talented young people, including actors, musicians and composers.
It's a world leading programme which is now being used in primary schools across the UK and by the Australian Government.
Hectors World is great fun, it's for all ages, it has an important message and it's free.
Thank you to everyone involved in this project, and I hope that Room 6 and other classes around the world find it a fun and educational resource.