With the School Holidays approaching I was wanting to promote the ‘Keep it real online’ Campaign.

This is a New Zealand Government campaign to support parents and caregivers to keep their children safe online, providing info and tips on how to reduce the risks of online harm such as cyber-bullying, inappropriate content, pornography and grooming.

It may be a good message to put in the Schools newsletter for information to our parents/caregivers.

The key messages to parents and caregivers are:

• You’ve got this.
• Keep it real online. Get help and advice at www.keepitrealonline.govt.nz
• Every year, one in five young Kiwis are bullied online.
• Many young Kiwis are using porn to learn about sex.
• 40% of young Kiwis have online interactions with people they’ve never met in real life.
• Kids can go from safe places to scary ones in just a few clicks.

This website gives the parents and caregivers tips on how to create a safe online environment for kids and young people. It highlights online harms to children and young people (bullying, inappropriate content, pornography and grooming) which can lead to feelings of vulnerability, isolation, depression and anxiety. In some cases, it can also lead to physical harm offline. Keep it Real Online stresses that right and wrong are the same online as they are offline.

Terri Middleton TMD702

Senior Constable

Prevention