On Thursday, October 17, Officer Hank Jacobsen of the Davenport Police Department came to Assumption to speak to parents of the Scott County Catholic Schools about internet safety. Here are a few of the biggest takeaways:
- Consistently remind your student that anything they put online is PUBLIC and PERMANENT. Even when they erase content, many times a ghost image is saved. Once words or an image is put online, they have no control over who sees it or how far it goes.
- Don’t block all access to technology. Help your child learn to use technology safely and positively.
- Be the parent. Set boundaries for technology and use monitoring/filtering software on all devices.
- Know that a very high percentage of students have at least two accounts for many social media sites – one parents see when they ask to check devices, and one students keep in secret.
- Keep lines of communication open and encourage your child to come to you when they see inappropriate material. Respond positively when they do come to you.
- Remember the acronym YAPPY to teach your children what information they should and should not reveal online.
- Your name- never tell a stranger your name. They could pretend to know you get access to your address and other personal information.
- Address- Never tell anyone online where you live.
- Password- Never tell anyone your password. Not even your best friend.
- Phone number- Never give your phone number to people that you don’t know.
- Your plans- Never tell a stranger your plans.
- From Ms. Bush: Remember, a recent study has shown that over an hour and a half of screen time a day correlates directly with depression rates. While there are many contributing causes to depression, excessive screen time has been shown to be a contributing factor. Balance screen time with “green time.” Go outside, exercise, read offline, spend time with family and friends.
For more information on internet safety, visit www.internetmatters.org/resources/safety-leaflets-resources/.
Warmest regards,
Kelly Bush, Director of Student Wellness