Is Sharing My Name Online Safe? Kindergarten Computer Science Lesson

📚 Is Sharing My Name Online Safe?

This lesson will help young students understand the importance of online safety, specifically concerning sharing personal information like their name. We'll discuss scenarios and safe practices in a fun, engaging way.

🎯 Objectives

• 🧒 To understand what personal information is.
• 🛡️ To recognize the potential risks of sharing their name online.
• ✅ To learn safe practices for online interactions.

📝 Materials

• 💻 Computer or tablet with internet access
• 🖍️ Markers or crayons
• 📄 Printable worksheets (optional)

☀️ Warm-up (5 mins)

• 🗣️ Introduction: Start by asking the students what their favorite games or activities are online.
• ❓ Question: Ask: "Have you ever shared your name with someone online while playing a game?" Discuss their experiences briefly.

💡 Main Instruction

🔎 What is Personal Information?

• 🆔 Explain that personal information includes their name, age, address, school, and photos.
• 🏠 Use an analogy: "Your name is like your house address; you don't tell it to strangers on the street, right?"

⚠️ Risks of Sharing Your Name Online

• 👾 Explain that some people online might pretend to be someone they are not.
• 🚨 Explain that sharing your name can help strangers find you or your family in real life.
• 🙅‍♀️ Emphasize: "Not everyone online is friendly, and some might use your information to trick you."

✅ Safe Practices Online

• 🦉 Always ask a grown-up (parent, teacher) before sharing any information online.
• 🔒 Use nicknames or screen names instead of your real name when playing games or using apps.
• 🗣️ If someone online asks for your name or other personal information, tell a trusted adult immediately.

🧪 Activity: "Online Safety Rules"

• ✍️ Have the students draw a picture of themselves using the computer safely.
• 📝 On the drawing, have them write one or two online safety rules they've learned (e.g., "I won't share my name," "I'll ask a grown-up first").

❓ Assessment

Scenario-Based Questions:

1. What should you do if someone online asks for your name?
2. Is it okay to share your age with someone in an online game? Why or why not?
3. If a friend shares their address online, what should you do?
4. Why is it important to use a nickname online instead of your real name?
5. Who should you tell if someone online makes you feel uncomfortable?

🎁 Bonus Activity

• 🧩 Create a simple online safety puzzle or matching game for the students to play.
• 🎬 Watch an age-appropriate video about online safety together.