Internet Safety

Internet Safety

Presentation on Internet Safety

Internet Safety is not a topic that should be brushed aside and counted as negligible. The safety of children when using the internet is just as important as using seat belts or wearing helmets. Just as seat belts and helmets help to protect children from serious harm so does vigilance with internet safety protect children from harm. Prevention and explicit communication about expectations are the key to protection. Many adults do not realize how easily children can stumble upon unwanted images and video on the internet. Keeping abreast of the newest fads and socialization techniques is vital as a parent or educator.

Cyber bullying is real. It is so easy for children to be bullied in this manner and hide it from parents or other adults. Reading negative comments about yourself over and over again would be very demoralizing and is a real problem in our society. Children must be taught from a very young age about proper etiquette while on the internet as well as how to respond to cyber bullies. If adults do not step up to the plate and take on this new form of bullying, then who will? Children have the right to feel safe both at home and at school and with the cooperation of both adults and students this can be a reality.

One of the biggest challenges in regards to internet safety is keeping adults informed and aware of both the dangers and the modes of internet access available to children. The world of technology is ever changing and sometimes it is difficult to keep abreast of all the changes, however it is the obligation of parents and educators alike to keep children safe on the internet.