John identified self-control, empathy, and a strong sense of self-worth as the three most important assets a child needs to use technology safely. All of these are found in homes that nurture, love, and protect children.

Today we welcomed John Parsons, cyber safety and child protection consultant, to Belfast School to work with our children, staff and whanau. John has delivered clear messages and practical strategies to all our students about how to keep themselves safe in the cyber environment.   His examples and explanations were pitched to the developmental needs of the age groups and were easily understood.  Our children are growing up in a digital environment that is rapidly changing.  To thrive, rather than survive the online world, our children need to understand what protective boundaries are, have empathy for others and be confident in knowing what to do when the behaviour of others poses risks for them. 

We encourage you to talk with your children about what they learnt from John today. 

As parents and adults, we protect our young people in everyday situations that keep them safe from people they don't know and situations that put them at risk.  In the online world, the risks and situations are not so easily recognised, yet the risks posed are often more harmful. John has provided a series of videos and information to guide and support parents with parenting and managing the cyber world.  These resources are included in this article. Further information will be emailed to parents / caregivers. 

BEDROOM, BATHROOM, PAJAMAS

https://www.facebook.com/johnparsonsS2E/videos/1112030665810052/

CHILDREN & ONLINE GAMES - A NOSY PARENT IS A LOVING PARENT 

https://www.facebook.com/johnparsonsS2E/videos/653756001863893/

KEEPING YOUR CHILDREN SAFE ONLINE

https://www.citizen21.co.nz/resources

Thanks to our Belfast School PTA and The Blefast Community Network for funding John's visit.