Safer Internet Day

Hector’s World - NetSafe, New Zealand

Hector’s World is a visually stunning and effective digital citizenship education programme for children aged 2-9 years and their families. This free online learning resource has been developed by NetSafe, an independent not for profit New Zealand organisation promoting digital citizenship, cybersafety and security.

The Hector's World resource features Hector and his friends who live in the magical animated world of Silicon Deep where their whole community is learning about the digital world. Silicon Deep can be found on the main Hector’s World website at www.hectorsworld.com.

Children learn as they explore, watch animated episodes and music videos on topics such as sharing personal information online and cyberbullying, and learn about cybercrime as well as digital literacy.

A separate website containing information for teachers, parents and caregivers is located at hectorsworld.netsafe.org.nz and there is an ad-free brand channel on YouTube at www.youtube.com/user/HectorsWorldNZ . The goal of this channel is to connect with older siblings, parents and teachers and get them interested in using Hector’s World with young children. The content is specifically geared to those who may be charged with the care of a younger child, not to young children themselves.

Digital Citizenship for Young Children

Young children are now often online using computers, mobile phones and other ICT devices.  At primary school age, children may not yet have the ability to identify and manage online challenges.

Hector’s World provides children with a fun environment in which to learn new skills and can help give young children the digital citizenship foundation they need to become confident and capable citizens of the online world. 

Hector’s World is internationally recognised for its innovative approach and emphasis on empowering children, while supporting the teachers and parents charged with their care.