Irish animator creates cartoon to teach kids about online safety

Share

Latest jobs

  • An Irish animation company has teamed up with CyberSafeKids to create a cartoon teaching children the importance of online safety and empathy.

    Kavaleer, says their new TV series will focus on providing digital water-wings for children as they begin their online adventures.

    The Dublin based company’s new cartoon Alva’s World was broadcast on RTÉjr for the first time today (6 September). The series will also be broadcast on Sky Kids from mid-October.

    Andrew Kavanagh, show creator and CEO of Kavaleer, said “The series tackles a number of key areas, from cyberbullying and online gaming to identity theft and current issues around Covid-19 tracking and home learning. The characters and storylines have been developed to equip kids with the online wellbeing tools they need via safe, non-threatening entertainment.” 

    RELATED: A new AI tool may help detect fake news and cyber-bullying automatically

    Kavaleer created the show based on research done by CyberSafeKids, which showed that almost 50% of kids have some form of internet accessible device by the age of eight. Furthermore, 45% are already using some form of social media.

    Alva’s World attempts to teach kids about the kind of problems or challenges they may encounter online. 

    Philip Arneill from CyberSafeKids said:“ The programme is an engaging, direct and age-appropriate way to target younger children, through a medium they love.”

    RELATED: Tech Craic: Adam B on YouTube stardom and anti-bullying

    Mr.Arneill also dded that it would help children develop “healthy online habits and responsible digital citizenship as they begin their online journeys.”

    lva’s World was commissioned by RTÉjr and Finnish broadcasting company YLE. It was produced in association with Screen Ireland, The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland and BCP Asset Management. It received funding from Creative Europe’s Media strand, which funds audiovisual projects based in the EU.

    Source: Siliconerepublic

    About the author

    Aoife is a Sync NI writer with a previous background working in print, online and broadcast media. She has a keen interest in all things tech related. To connect with Aoife feel free to send her an email or connect on LinkedIn.

    Got a news-related tip you’d like to see covered on Sync NI? Email the editorial team for our consideration.

    Sign up now for a FREE weekly newsletter showcasing the latest news, jobs and events in NI’s tech sector.

Share this story