Summer is here and today's techno society, it usually means more time online for your kids and teens. It also means parents need to get ahead of their kids digitally. There are many monsters that linger online, it is imperative you teach your children about cyber-safety today.
REALITY CHECK: Did you know that a recent survey found that almost 70 percent of adolescents say the best way for them to be safe online is through education? - Michele Borba
One of our country's top notch Parenting Expert is Dr. Michele Borba. In her most recent book, The Big Book of Parenting Solutions, she wrote about one of her favorite acronyms, S.A.F.E. As our children have more time off, which can mean more time online, take the time to educate yourself and your children.
S.A.F.E.: Four Critical Online Safety Rules to Teach Your Child by Michele Borba
- S – Stop and Don’t Click. Never respond to a cyberbully–doing so usually only intensifies things. (Remember, bullies want a reaction and usually enjoy knowing you’re upset, so don’t give them the pleasure!) In fact, never respond to any email when you are upset or angry. Instead, count to 10, turn off the monitor, walk away from the computer, or take a deep breath but do not click. There are no take backs. (Also, don’t turn off the computer. You will lose the evidence which you may need to prove online cyberbullying).
- A –Tell An Adult. Don’t keep this yourself. Cyberybullying usually escalates and doesn’t go away. Report any threat ASAP to a parent, teacher or an adult you trust. Your parent needs to get you a new account and password immediately. Even then you should always change your password periodically.
- F – Filter Out Personal Information. Never ever give out personal information such as your name (or your parent’s name), address, phone number, birthdate, social security number or credit card number. Never ever exchange passwords with even your closest friend or let someone take your place at the computer and pretend to be you.
- E – Save Evidence. Do not delete the text or phone message. Save the e-mail, blog, photo, or web page. Print out copies, and show the electronic evidence to an adult. You can use it to track the source and as proof to stop the assault.
Do you want to learn more about raising your kids in today's society? From bullying to nail biting to simply finding the wrong friends, The Big Book of Parenting Solutions is your one stop guide to being a better parent. Order today.
Check out my inside peek of this tremendous book, click here.
Broward County offers an Internet Safety page from the Sheriff's office.
Be an educated parent, you will have safer teens and children.
Watch video below and meet Dr. Michele Borba personally.
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