Mission Statement

Educational Insights

 

…developing individuals to meet the challenges of a diverse society.

 

          Our mission statement at Garden County Schools addresses preparing our students for 21st century learning. This results in increased technology integration into the school curriculum and suggests more time online than ever before. This week’s article addresses the world of opportunities available on the internet and suggestions for parents on how to help keep their children safe. (Information is taken from “Net Cetera-Chatting with Kids About Being Online”, available at www.onguardonline.gov. More parental advice for children at different ages is available at this website, also.)

            The internet provides a wide variety of ways to socialize, communicate, and learn that can be fulfilling, informational, and entertaining. However they come with certain risks:

            Inappropriate conduct. The online world can feel anonymous. Kids sometimes forget they are still accountable for their actions.

          Inappropriate contact. Some people online have bad intentions, including bullies, predators, hackers, and scammers.

          Inappropriate content. You may be concerned that your kids could find pornography, violence, or hate speech online.

            Parents can reduce these risks by talking to their kids about how they communicate

-online and off- and encouraging them to engage in conduct they can be proud of.

            Consider the following:

            Start early-as soon as your child uses any mobile device, it’s time to talk to them about safety and appropriate behaviors.

            Create an honest, open environment-be supportive and positive; kids look to their parents to help guide them.

            Initiate conversations-use everyday opportunities to talk to your kids about being online.

            Communication your values-communicating your values clearly can help your kids make smarter and more thoughtful decisions when they face tricky situations.

            Be patient-resist the urge to rush through conversations with your kids. Most kids need to hear information repeated, in small doses, for it to sink in.

            The best way to protect your kids online is to talk to them! Research suggests that when children want important information, most rely on their parents. If you keep talking with your kids, your patience and persistence will pay off in the long run. Work hard to keep the lines of communication open, even if you learn your child has done something online you find inappropriate.

            Being aware of where your child is on the internet, who they are communicating with, and providing guidelines is an excellent place to start in terms of preparing them for a safe and successful future!

           

-Dr. Paula Sissel,

Superintendent/Elementary Principal