Oatlands Primary School Newsletter

Cyber Safety

Keeping our families safe online...

Four tips to be eSmart over the school holidays

From the eSafety website

https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents

 

With the festive season upon us, children are most likely spending more time online than they normally do when they’re at school. We share our top four tips on how to stay eSmart over the school holidays.

 

1.Enjoy tech gifts safely

At this time of year, families give each other heaps of fun presents with internet connectivity, such as smart toys, phones, tablets, and wearables. Check out this great Gift Guide from the Office of the eSafety Commissioner on how to enjoy tech gifts safely, including privacy protection, understanding your kids’ games, and setting reasonable boundaries.

 

2. Spread joy as a family

The holidays can be a great time to work together with your kids to spread kindness and care for others. Some families donate to Christmas appeals or volunteer together for a good cause.  

It’s also a good time to share kindness closer to home. Talk to your kids about being a good friend to someone who has been bullied online over the holidays – here are some good ideas to get you started. And we encourage you to take the Dolly’s Dream DigiPledge as a family, and learn together how to make positive choices online.

 

3. Reach out for support

Summer holidays should be a fun, relaxing time. But it’s also a time when kids are away from their usual school supports, when cyber bullying can increase, and when families can be feeling stressed about money or relationships. Remember there’s free, confidential counselling available over web or phone, which parents, carers or kids can call about anything, any time. They include:

4. Visit your local library

Many families also appreciate the summer holiday programs offered by their local public library. Libraries are free, welcoming, accessible places where families can relax, connect socially, and build skills for smart, safe and responsible use of tech.