Cyber safety Resources

Social media has overtaken many aspects of our lives today. Internet and social media have their benefits, however they also have their risks. Today, our children have a lot of information and opportunities at the tips of their fingers, which is amazing and scary at the same time. The best way for us to ensure that they're using this information and opportunities in a safe and positive manner is to model and monitor appropriate online behavior.

So, what can parents do to support their students? Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Talk with your kids about what your expectations are for social media usage.

  • THINK before you post. See THINK poster at the bottom of the page.

  • Rule of thumb: "WWGS?" (What Would Grandma Say?) if she saw this post?

• Set boundaries regarding what they should and should not post, when they should and should not use social media or their phones in general.

  • Some suggestions: set screen time limits, phones should not be brought to the dinner table, or phones will be collected by parents before bedtime, so kids are not on them all night.

• Consistently check-in with your kid(s) about the things they are consuming on their devices. What apps are they using, what are they watching, etc.

• Family Media Agreement is a great way to get everyone on the same page. 

• Monitor your child’s internet and phone usage. This doesn't have to be a complete invasion of privacy-- you can monitor and look through their social media together. Also, knowing your child's passwords and checking their content often helps them remember their boundaries and your expectations.

  • Below are some highly rated monitoring apps to assist you.

Additional Websites to Check Out

• CommonSenseMedia

  • This website has great information about current apps, how to keep your children safe on social media, etc.

• InternetMatters

  • Website with advice, discussion of social media issues, and parental monitoring.

• CaringForKids

  • This article discusses all aspects of social media and safety.

• Parenting

  • This website has advice in all areas of parenting. This particular page has advice, discussion of social media issues, and parental monitoring.