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Recently, the Related Arts teachers combined classes to
complete the annual internet safety instruction. Topics
covered included identity and cyber-bullying. Students were
reminded that they should always ask an adult before going online.
We cautioned to be careful with what they choose to post online. It
is safer to reveal as little as possible about their identity is
best. Students should never post their full name or address online.
If a site is asking for personal information then they should
ask an adult before completing the form. In addition to discussing
our identities, we also discussed cyberbullying as well as bullying
in general. Students were instructed that if they ever feel
bothered or upset by any communication that they recieve online
then they should let a trusted adult know as soon as possible. When
posting/chatting online students should THINK: is it thoughtful, is
is helpful, is it important, is it necessary, and is it kind?
If it isn't then don't post it.
Parents please take time to discuss internet safety with your
children. Remind them that it is never acceptable to say unkind or
untrue things about someone online. Also, even though your
child may want a Facebook or other Social Networking account,
please wait. Most Social Networking sites restrict users to
those age 13 and over. if your child has an account then monitor it
closely and make sure that you know those who your child is friends
with online. It is very easy to pretend to be someone you are
not in an online envioronment. If you have any questions
please see someone on the Related Arts team.
Below are some Parent Resources for discussing internet safety
with your child:
http://www.pta.org/programs/content.cfm?ItemNumber=963
http://www.isafe.org/outreach/media/media_cyber_bullying
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