eSMART MATTERS
BY ROWAN WALKER (eLearning Coordinator)
As parents and educators, ensuring our children's safety online is paramount. Here are some key strategies to help protect our young digital citizens:
Teach Respectful Behaviour
Encourage children to treat others online as they would in person. Remind them that behind every screen is a real person deserving of respect.
Protect Privacy
Guide your children to:
- Not share personal information
- Keep privacy settings up to date on social media
- Use strong, private passwords
- Be cautious with location services on devices and apps
Think Critically
Help your children develop critical thinking skills online:
- Question the credibility of information they encounter
- Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true
- Understand that not everyone online is who they claim to be
Open Communication
Maintain open dialogue with your children about their online experiences. Regular, relaxed conversations can help them feel comfortable sharing concerns or asking for guidance.
Remember, our role is to equip our children with the skills to navigate the digital world safely. By teaching them to be discerning and responsible, we prepare them for a future where digital literacy is essential.
Further Information:
1 https://raisingchildren.net.au/pre-teens/entertainment-technology/digital-life/digital-citizenship