Keeping our kids safe online
On Monday 23rd June 7-8pm Constable Terry Ken our community constable will be delivering a Parent session on how to keep kids safe online.
This is open to any parents and will be held in Whio. Please register for catering purposes.
10 Tips from Constable Ken to keep your kids safe online.
Ban phones in bedrooms: Prevent your children from going to their rooms with a device. Make them use the internet in public/shared spaces in the home i.e living or dining rooms.
Set time limits: For smaller kids, this may be for up to 30 minutes a day or only on the weekends.
Create passwords: Make sure you know the passwords for all of their devices and various social media accounts.
Regular checks: Let them know that you'll occasionally check their texts, emails, posts, photos and settings. Explain that it's not spying, you're just teaching them to be responsible.
Get it in writing: Consider drawing up a contract between yourself and your child outlining the dos and don'ts. Include consequences for rule violations.
Limit apps: If you have an iTunes or Google Play account, keep the password private so you limit what they buy. Get them to ask permission for each app download. Block in-app purchases to stop any nasty surprises appearing on your credit card. Stick to recommended age limits for all games, apps, and media.
Teach yourself: The best way to know what your kids are capable of is to know how to use these devices and websites yourself.
Teach consequences: Talk to your children regularly about the dangers of constantly accessing the internet and posting on their social pages. Tell them never to post anything they wouldn't want their Granny to see.
Cyberbullying: Keep a very close eye on any evidence of cyberbullying. If you suspect something, talk to your child first. Also, take screenshots as evidence for police and school.
Have manners: Make sure they understand the consequences if they are unpleasant to anyone online. Practice good cybercitizenship and demonstrate good role modelling.
For further useful information or online resources on cyber safety visit these websites
Net Safe NZ
NZ Police Internet Safety
https://www.police.govt.nz/advice-services/cybercrime-and-internet/internet-safety