Rob Cope of Our Kids Online talked to a room of Wānaka parents about the dangers of the internet in May this year. Over 100 families were represented from across our community with Rob helping to answer all the big questions.
Rob’s message is clear. Parents play a critical role in protecting their children from the dangers of the internet. With the increasing prevalence of online activities, children are exposed to various risks, including cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and online predators. Some key points included:
1. **Parental Involvement:** Parents need to be actively involved in their children’s online activities. This includes monitoring their internet usage, knowing the websites they visit, and understanding the social media platforms they use.
2. **Open Communication:** Maintaining open lines of communication with children about their online experiences is crucial. Parents should encourage their kids to talk about anything that makes them uncomfortable or if they encounter any suspicious behavior online.
3. **Setting Boundaries:** Establishing clear rules and boundaries for internet use can help protect children. This includes setting time limits on device usage and ensuring that children do not share personal information online.
4. **Education and Awareness:** Parents should educate themselves and their children about online safety. Teaching children about the potential risks and how to navigate the internet safely is essential.
5. **Using Parental Controls:** Utilizing parental control tools and software can help parents monitor and restrict their children’s online activities, providing an additional layer of security.
For more information you can you to the following resources:
Keen an eye on our events to attend more workshops like this one.