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Seneca Valley School District

Online Safety

Understanding Online Safety:

  1. Digital Literacy: The basics of navigating the internet safely includes understanding privacy settings, keeping strong passwords, recognizing viruses and phishing attempts, being aware of online scams and safeguarding personal information.

  2. Cyberbullying: Recognize the signs of cyberbullying and educate about the importance of kindness and empathy online. Encourage open communication so they feel comfortable discussing any issues they encounter.

  3. Privacy Concerns: Be cautious about sharing personal information online. Ensure that children do not post or disclose their full name, address, school details or any other sensitive information online (especially to strangers).

  4. Social Media: Understand the platforms and potential risks associated with them. Monitor children's social media activity and discuss responsible usage, including the importance of setting privacy settings and being selective about what they share.

  5. Online Predators: Educate children about the dangers of interacting with strangers online. Encourage them to only communicate with people they know in real life and to report any suspicious behavior immediately.

  6. Content Exposure: Parents are encouraged to install parental control software or use built-in parental controls on devices to limit access to inappropriate content.

  7. Childline - Staying Safe Online

Tips for Families

  • Open CommunicationCreate a supportive environment where children feel comfortable discussing their online experiences and concerns. Encourage them to report anything that makes them feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
  • Set Ground Rules: Parents are encouraged to establish clear rules and boundaries for internet usage. This may include limiting screen time, designating which websites are allowed, and specifying times when devices should be off-limits. 
  • Lead by Example: Be a positive role model for responsible online behavior. Demonstrate good digital habits by practicing secure internet practices and avoiding excessive screen time.
  • Stay Informed: Stay updated on the latest trends and threats in online safety. Attend workshops, read articles and stay engaged with online activities to better understand the challenges children may face.
  • Monitor Activity: Parents are encouraged to regularly check a child's browsing history and social media accounts to ensure they are adhering to established rules. However, balance monitoring with trust and respect for privacy.
  • Educate Regularly: Continuously educate and reinforcing the importance of being cautious and responsible while using the internet.
  • Encourage Critical Thinking: Teach children to think critically about the information they encounter online. Help them develop skills to evaluate the credibility and reliability of sources.

Common Sense Media - Online Safety

 

Teaching Kids to Protect Their Data and Privacy Online | Common Sense Media

By understanding the risks associated with the online world and implementing proactive measures, parents can help ensure their children navigate the internet safely and responsibly.