Keeping Your Kids Safe Online

By the time our kids are 18 years old, most of their lives will be documented on the internet...primarily by them.  And you.  The internet is something they will grow up with as a part of their daily lives.  As with all things, when used correctly it is great, but when it is misused the internet can be very dangerous for our kids.  And, because tweeting, posting, snapping and kikking is as second nature as breathing, they don't always think about the consequences before they act. 

How do we protect our children? 
1.  Set boundaries.  Here is a list of responses we got from WMS 6th graders when we asked that rules their parents have about their technology use.
- No internet/phone after 9:00 pm.
- Can't make a purchase (app or game) without parents' permission.
- Only one profile per social media account.  (If you check your child's profile - is that the only one they have or have they created a second one?)
- No technology before homework is finished.
- No more than 1 hour of technology on school days.
- Nothing inappropriate (define this very clearly!)
- Do not post any personal information
- Do not friend or follow anyone you do not know

2.  Educate them.  Don't assume common sense will kick in.  Talk to them about what is and isn't okay.  What they should and shouldn't be doing online.

Wamego Middle School is utilizing the NetSmartz program through the Boys and Girls Club of Manattan to help educate our students about internet safety.  Today we welcomed Chloe Salmon, NetSmartz coordinator, to speak to our sixth graders.  She will also be speaking with our 7th and 8th graders in the near future as well.  Chloe's presentation focused on the following points:

1.  Who are you friends with online?
- People can be anyone they want to be online.  If the aren't your friend in real life, they shouldn't be your friend online. 
- Online Predators - not just the stereotype.  An online predator is someone over the age of 18 who is trying to get personal information about and build a relationship with someone under the age of 18. 

2. Watch where you put your information!
- Once you post, there is no guarantee that your information is completely gone if you delete it.  As soon as you post, someone can save, print or take a screen shot than can be shared immediately or any time in the future. 
- If one post or comment is the only thing someone knows about you, is that a good representation of you?
- Colleges and employers search online profiles to decide who to accept or hire.

3.  Cyberbullying
- Don't Engage!  It is hard, but don't fight back.  That will only fuel the fire and make the problem worse.
- Block.  Almost all online sites or social media have a block or report feature.
- Save evidence.
- Report. 

Helping our kids navigate the choppy waters of the world wide web is a daunting task, but starting with an open conversation is the most important step you can take. 

Conversation Starters:
1.  What are our family rules about technology?  What should they be?
2. What are some ways you stay safe online?