Stay on the Path: Teaching Kids to be Safe and Ethical Online Portal Page
This site includes articles, tips, backgrounders and an eTutorial to help parents. http://mediasmarts.ca/stay-path-teaching-kids-be-safe-and-ethical-online-portal-page 
The following tips are recommended by Cyber AngelsDon't rely on software to do your job
Filtering and blocking programs can be a part of your Internet safety plan at home, but they don’t take the place of an informed and involved parent. Be proactive Attend cyber safety classes and spend some time listening to and speaking with other concerned parents. Participate with your child online Familiarize yourself with the services and programs your child uses. Plan ahead Talk to your child about the things that could be encountered online, and what he/she can do. Encourage their other interests Children shouldn’t spend an excessive amount of time online. Encourage them to participate in other types of activities, too. Think "Vegas" You wouldn't drop your child off alone in Las Vegas, so don’t “drop them off” online either. Remember to keep an eye on them. A time and place for everything Keep your online technology use in a “common” room– where you can keep an eye on it. Grant your child Internet access only when you are at home and awake. Help your child to manage their screen time. Explore the Internet Take the time to explore the use of your technology tools and the Internet. They are valuable tools that can enrich the lives of every member of your family. The more you know, the better you can protect your family. |
Sample Agreements:
Creating an Agreement between you and your child/tween/teen is an excellent way to teach your child about the responsibilities that come with using a new technology tool. Be sure you go over every item in your contract, giving your child the opportunity to ask questions
Mobile agreement (Word) Mobile agreement (pdf) Facebook Agreement (Word) Facebook Agreement (pdf) Social Media Agreement (pdf) Reporting Abusive Content
If you (or a friend, peer or sibling) have been involved in a self/peer exploitation incident (otherwise known as “sexting”), we are here to help. This site provides you with guidance on steps you can take to get through this.
http://needhelpnow.ca How to report inappropriate content on Social Media sites: |
click image to download pdf
Quick Reference Links for Parents:
Parent Backgrounders
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Are you a Helicopter Parent?
When to Hover --
and When to Back Off
Nobody wants to be labeled a helicopter parent -- a hyper-vigilant mom or dad who micromanages their kids' every move. But when it comes to kids' entertainment, nothing gets our rotors spinning faster than a Viagra ad during their favorite show or a frightening movie trailer before a PG-rated movie.
The latest argument against helicopter parenting can be found in a new book by Harvard psychologist Richard Weissbourd. In “The Parents We Mean to Be,” Weissbourd says that too much attention actually makes kids miserable and deprives them of the ability to develop their own values. In other words, trying to control everything your kid sees, plays, and listens to -- not just in your own home but everywhere he goes -- might not be doing your kid any favors.
Read the rest of the article @ Common Sense
