Internet Safety

Over the last few years, technology has led the way for many social media sites and apps to be created.  This is a great way for kids and adults to keep connected and possibly even meet online friends.  It is important, though, for parents to discuss the importance of internet safety when it comes to being online for any reason.

According to Common Sense Education, one of the first things you should teach your children is the difference between personal and private information.  Although this may seem like something they should already know, it is never a bad idea to reiterate the information to them to make sure they are practicing safety while online.

• Personal information is any information about yourself that cannot be used to identify you individually because it could be true for many different people (i.e. hair color, likes, dislikes, etc.).
• Private information is information that is unique to only you and can be used to identify you personally (i.e. address, birthdate, full name, etc.).

Distinguishing what information is okay and not okay for your children to share online could help save them from becoming a victim in the future.

Another thing Common Sense Education suggests teaching children is about Red Flag Feelings.  This occurs when something happens on digital media that makes your child (or you for that matter) feel uncomfortable, worried, sad, or anxious. When this happens, they say your child should work through the acronym F.I.R.E to process their feelings.

• F stands for Feel. Take stock of your emotions; which are you feeling?  Uncomfortable, worried, sad, anxious, or jealous? If not any of these, what are you feeling?  Figure out what exactly you’re feeling before moving on.
• I is for Identify. Consider what caused you to feel this way.  What happened exactly? Was it something that you or someone else said or did?  Get to the root of the problem.
• R is for Reflect. Consider possible responses to the situation. What are the actions you can take?  Will there be benefits or drawbacks from those actions? Try to think the whole plan out before moving forward.
• E is for Enact. Take action. How can you move forward to address the situation in a way that will be beneficial not only to you, but also to the others involved?

These steps can be used not only if your child is being bullied or in a sticky situation online, but also if they are becoming overly obsessed or anxious because of any digital media.  No child should feel worried or sad when it comes to being on social media or playing games online, but learning the proper steps to take in these situations could help them not only feel better, but also save their life.

If you or anyone you know is needing help with internet safety contact The Safe Place at 501-354-1884.  You can also call the Crisis Line at 1-888-554-2501 or our Perryville location at 501-889-2030.