With the increased technology use in the school currently we are having a major focus on the safe and appropriate use of devices in our lives. Students are looking at ways we can be safe when online and how we can ensure we keep our information private. With the internet and mobile devices becoming such as standard part of our lives it is both a powerful learning resource and a social tool. As with any tool however there are risks associated with its use, knowing how to use the internet safely is becoming an increasingly necessary and complex life skill for our children.
A major issue schools face today is the crossover between issues occurring at home carrying over into the school. Strong relationships between the school and families can help to minimise the impact these issues have on student's lives and provide them with strategies for dealing with them as they occur. The single most important thing you can let your child/ren know is that they won't be in trouble for reporting things that happen. Often children don't report incidents for fear of losing their access to computers and phones.
Some basic tips:
-Set guidelines and expectations for the appropriate use of technology.
-Ensure computers are used in a public space in the house.
-Avoid having phones/mobile devices in the bedroom at night.
-Consider setting time limits for screen use.
-Remember YAPPY (the personal information you should not share online) – Your full name, Address, Phone number, Passwords, Your plans.
Some useful websites
Cybersmart - government website on cybersafety aimed at various ages and parents.
Youth Central - Youth site aimed at teenagers.
If you would like some brochures related to cybersafety please see the office staff(we have a limited number available) or visit the government's cybersmart site and request some information.
A major issue schools face today is the crossover between issues occurring at home carrying over into the school. Strong relationships between the school and families can help to minimise the impact these issues have on student's lives and provide them with strategies for dealing with them as they occur. The single most important thing you can let your child/ren know is that they won't be in trouble for reporting things that happen. Often children don't report incidents for fear of losing their access to computers and phones.
Some basic tips:
-Set guidelines and expectations for the appropriate use of technology.
-Ensure computers are used in a public space in the house.
-Avoid having phones/mobile devices in the bedroom at night.
-Consider setting time limits for screen use.
-Remember YAPPY (the personal information you should not share online) – Your full name, Address, Phone number, Passwords, Your plans.
Some useful websites
Cybersmart - government website on cybersafety aimed at various ages and parents.
Youth Central - Youth site aimed at teenagers.
If you would like some brochures related to cybersafety please see the office staff(we have a limited number available) or visit the government's cybersmart site and request some information.