ABSTRACT
There are several social justice issues related to children's use of new technologies namely, power, protection, transformation and taking action. This chapter explores critical literacy as a form of protection and focuses on gendered online practices. It looks at instances and sites where children and young people take action for social justice. In response to societal concerns about risks associated with children's increasing use of the Internet, the UK Government commissioned psychologist Tanya Byron to undertake a review of children's use of new technologies and make recommendations for policy and practice. In primary school, children's impulse control, critical evaluative and self-regulation skills are still developing. Adult monitoring is still required, although it should move from heavy control to supervision with opportunities to discuss their online behaviour. The sexualisation of children and young people through their use of new technologies, the mainstreaming of sexualised images and content and the accessibility of online pornography are key critical issues.
