During the Spring Benchmarking in April, 3rd, 4th and 5th Grade students discussed online safety issues with Mrs. M-C and Mrs. Broam, PHES School Counselors. How can you practice being safe while connecting with others via the Internet?
**Have an Adult Nearby! Responsible Grown Ups can help you track the time you are online. If you have a question, these folks are available to answer questions or help you with problems you encounter.
**Protect Your Privacy Be careful about what you reveal online. Quote from Mrs. M-C, "People don't need to know your business." Don't share your name, phone number, address, age, where you go to school, pictures, etc. Check out this video how about how long it takes a predator to put puzzle pieces together . . . http://www.netsmartz.org/RealLifeStories/TrackingTeresa
**There is no such thing as a FREE LUNCH! Do not register for prizes, free iPads--it's NOT FREE and could be a FISHING EXPEDITION . . .
**POWER OFF if someone asks you to meet somewhere, call you on the phone, asks for your picture, etc, say, "NO!" You may think you are talking to another kid, but it could be an adult who is only pretending to be a kid . . .
**Always Be Polite Be courteous to others. Never say bad words, mean things or spread rumors or lies. Treat others with respect. You are responsible for your choices and your negative comments could be identified as "cyberbullying."
Mrs. M-C reminds students that most people have good intentions and kind hearts, but be aware and be careful for the few folks out there who do not.
Check out http://www.netsmartz.org/Parents and http://www.scag.gov/internet-crimes-against-children/a-kids-guide-to-internet-safety for more tips and information.