Passwords are secret keys

Learning goal: Explain that passwords protect access to accounts.

Prepare: One worksheet per child, pencils or crayons, and the linked book pages. A closed book can stand in for a device. No student account or device is needed.

Book connection: Cyber Safety Coloring & Activity Book Featuring Officer Quackers, PDF pages 13. Numbers are PDF positions, including blank backs.

Teach the lesson

1. 3 min · Connect

   Ask: What does a key help protect? Do not bring real keys or passwords to share.

2. 4 min · Model and say

   Point to page 13. Say: A password is like an account key. We protect it and do not send it to players or friends.

3. 8 min · Practice together

   Use an empty envelope as a pretend account. Practice deciding who can help with it: a trusted caregiver or school helper, rather than someone asking in a game. Read the worksheet aloud and let children respond by pointing, speaking, circling, or drawing. Use optional coloring only if time allows.

4. 3 min · Discuss

   Invite two different responses. Ask: What would you do? Why could that help? Use the answer guide on the next page.

5. 2 min · Check understanding

   Ask: Is a password something to send to a player? Listen for no and a help action.

Answers & follow-through

Worksheet guidance

1. A password helps protect…

   An account.

2. A game player asks for your password. What do you do?

   Keep it private and tell a trusted adult.

3. Draw a key or lock. Do not write a real password.

   Accept a key or lock with an explanation about protection.

Check, then respond

Ask: Is a password something to send to a player? Listen for no and a help action.

Mark your observation: □ Independent   □ With a prompt   □ Needs practice. If a child needs practice, demonstrate the same action again and offer a new example in the next class. This is a teaching check, not a safety certification.

Make it work for your learners

Support: Read aloud, point to two choices, model one response, and accept a gesture, spoken answer, drawing, or partner scribe. Do not require independent reading.

Extend: Ask the child to invent one new pretend situation for today’s goal and explain a safe response to a partner.

Family conversation

Remind your child that a trusted adult can help with accounts without sharing passwords in chats.

No personal information or signed homework needs to be returned.

Teacher care note

Use fictional situations. Do not collect passwords, addresses, or private experiences. Offer an alternative to role-play. If a child shares a concern, listen calmly, avoid public questioning, and follow school procedures.