SAFE USE OF THE INTERNET

Many parents have expressed concern about their children’s use of the vast array of technology now available. We have begun an extensive education program to teach our students about the dangers of online predators and cyber bullying and would encourage parent to visit the listed websites.

If you are looking for practical advice on Internet safety, parental control and filters for the protection of children, students and families visit http://www.netalert.net.au/  You will discover  the risks for children online such as chatting online, cyber bullying, online predators or online scams and find solutions to these problems and more.  

This is a young person's guide to smart 'net surfing, chatting and emailing. You can have fun on the internet and explore cool sites, but remember to always be cybersmart. http://www.cybersmartkids.com.au/

Internet Safety Education for Primary Students can be found on the CyberQuoll interactive learning program which has a suite of materials to help you teach internet safety utlising materials that have been developed to assist you teaching and learning about online safety.  http://www.cyberquoll.com.au/hub.htm

To view some real life case studies about bullying and cyber danger visit http://www.wiseuptoit.com.au/videoclips.htm

THE PARENTS’GUIDE TO SAFE INTERNET USE

Children need parents and carers to teach them how to make smart choices about who and what they find online, to deal with commercial material, safeguard their privacy, to have a positive experience when meeting people online, and use their time on the Internet effectively.

The types of rules you may have made about how to deal with strangers and what children can watch on television or video is also relevant to the Internet.

There are some general principles that apply to children in most age groups:

1. Involve the family in Internet use and discussion.
2. Set up family agreements for Internet usage. This can address issues like the time of day  allowed on, length of time allowed online, how to deal with privacy, netiquette etc.
3. Take an interest in the new sites children are finding online and spend time exploring with them. This will help children retain your values for when they are working alone.
4. Keep in touch with what children are doing online.
5. Put the computer with the Internet access in a public area of the home, such as the living room, rather than a bedroom or playroom.
6. Have family talks about the Internet and encourage children to let you know if they come across anything disturbing.
7. With older children you may choose to discuss the nature of material found on the Internet

Remember that children will have access to the Internet not only at home, but also at other places they frequent such as schools, friend's houses and libraries.

By allowing children to make informed decisions about the content they access, and by developing a sense of trust at home, your children will be in a good position to use the Internet in a responsible way when they are away from the home environment.

THE CHILDREN’S GUIDE TO KEEPING SAFE ON THE INTERNET 

1. Never tell anyone you meet on the internet your telephone number, home address or your school’s name unless your parent/guardian specifically gives you permission.
2. Always be very careful in chat rooms. Even if a chat room says it is only for children, there is no way to tell if everyone there is really a child. It might be an adult or an older child trying to trick you.
3. Never send your picture, credit card or bank details to anyone, without first checking with your parent/guardian.
4. Always check with your parent/guardian that it is okay to be in a chat room.
5. Never arrange to meet anyone unless your parent/guardian goes with you and you meet in a public place. People you contact online are not always who they seem or who they say they are.
6. Always leave a chat room if someone says or writes something which makes you feel uncomfortable or worried and make sure you tell your parent/guardian.
7. Never open attachments to emails unless they come from someone you know and trust. They could contain viruses or other programs which would destroy all the information and software on your computer.
8. Always keep your password to yourself; do not tell anyone what it is.
9. Never respond to nasty or suggestive messages and always tell your parent/guardian if you get these.
10. Always stay away from sites that say they are for people over 18 only. The warnings are there to protect you. Adult sites can sometimes cost a lot more on your phone bill too.
11. Always remember if someone makes you an offer that seems too good to be true, it is probably a trick.