Post for Parents: Online Safety

Just as we have been talking about using our words appropriately with the girls in class, we acknowledge that there is a whole world where tone of voice is EASILY misconstrued.  So this post is for you, parents, and deals with the tricky world of internet communication. 

From "The Greater Good," we found tips in an article called, 'How to Keep Your Child Safe (and Happy) Online.  (Full text available here).

The article highlights five principles that help students not avoid yucky people online, but also make wise choices to promote their own safe, positive community.  Two of the best in my opinion are :

1. Establish regular periods of time for your whole family to be unplugged.  The tricky part is modelling this!  But experts believe that the constant need some feel to be 'plugged in' can cause anxiety and even depression.  The article suggests creating a zone in your house, like the dining room, that is 100% device free 24-hrs a day. 

2. Teach kids to always know their online community. They should know every single one of the people that they are “friends” with or that is “following” them, without exception.  And they should be aware of this audience and how all of their words/ actions could be conveyed to each follower.

Good luck, parents!  We appreciate all you do to support our sweet girls.

By the way, how great is this quote on raising girls from the lovely Diane Von Furstenberg?!