Teaching students to be good digital citizens is a big part of instructional technology at Blanchard Memorial School. While students have discussed and demonstrated understanding of appropriate use of technologies and online communications during library lessons and in their classrooms, recent incidences of improper online behavior by students at our school remind us that children of all ages continue to be at risk of cyber bullying and making other unwise decisions when using the Internet. It’s clear that their teachers and parents must provide constant guidance as they navigate their increasingly digital world.
We must all recognize that students are exploring and experimenting with social media at increasingly younger ages. Because they lack the developmental skills to always use good judgment, they are at risk for engaging in online communication that is unsafe, hurtful, or inappropriate. Text messaging, chat rooms (often part of online gaming forums), and social networking sites like Facebook provide tempting opportunities for children and teens to exchange private information or engage in cyber bullying.
Families can help prevent improper online behavior by establishing some rules and talking to their children about appropriate use of networking sites, emphasizing that any online communication is permanent. Once something is posted, it can't be taken back. The following resources offer some excellent guidelines for helping children benefit from the incredible opportunities provided by the Internet while avoiding potential risks:
|Rules of the Road for Parents in a Digital Age from Common Sense Media
Social Media and Kids | Common Sense Media
Social Networking and Tweens
Tween Parents
Great information, and good to remind us that we need to periodically remind our kids about these good rules!
ReplyDeleteThanks!