Social Media and Online Safety At School and At Home

At school:
A digital citizen is one who knows what is right and wrong, exhibits intelligent technology behaviour and makes good choices when using social media and accessing the internet.

Parents, students, and staff modelling and collaborating on safe and best practices can support students with the tools and skills to make good choices online.  At SWO we are continuously working with our community to enable students to be innovative, creative and responsible citizens in the digital and physical world. Digital Citizenship is more than just a teaching tool; it is a way to prepare us for a society full of technology.

To support ongoing learning and awareness,  Officer Drozdz, our Community Liaison Officer from the Hamilton Police Services spent time presenting to grade 7 and 8 students on the topic of Social Media, Internet Safety and Cyberbullying this morning.

The presentation was meant for students to gain an understanding of consequences both in real life situations as well as the possible criminal charges that can go along with these inappropriate activities both in person and online.  A discussion on bullying, and keyboard courage (cyberbullying), as well as suggestions to keep themselves safe were summarized. The presentation gave a brief definition of child pornography, as well as the applicable charges, and discussed the sex offender registry with respect to creating and sharing inappropriate images online. Suggestions were given on how to deal with a situation that may be bullying and covered the need for responsibility of student actions and what roles individuals play in these situations (bully, participant, bystander vs upstander).

At home:
Because the digital world is relatively new, we continue to learn more as we experience life in the age of the Internet and social media.

These tools can be incredibly useful – imagine the benefits they bring to students conducting research. Many of us have found digital tools to be vital for staying in touch with friends and family, and sharing news and helpful information. However, like any tool, digital media can be used to cause harm and create concern.

Today’s youth are exploring apps and platforms far beyond the worlds of Twitter and Facebook, as we can see with the rise of Snapchat, GroupMe, WhatsApp, Kik and Houseparty. Without the filters that block some tools, it can be hard for families to ensure their children are safe online. 

Sharing private photos of information does occur and usually leads to feelings of regret and the betrayal of trust. In the same way, sharing personal feelings and thoughts online can be healthy and helpful – but messages of self-harm can be a serious concern.

What should a family do when they learn of a student’s thoughts of self-harm or suicide?

First, try to call the family involved. Speak directly with an adult in the home, share your concern and inform them about what their child is posting online. Safety comes first – so do not worry about being intrusive or “overreacting.”

Second, tell the family some options for immediate help. They can call the 24-hour crisis line for Crisis Outreach and Support Team (COAST) at 905-972-8338. COAST will offer support and direction. If the concern is very serious or immediate, taking the child to the McMaster Children’s Hospital Emergency Room is most appropriate. Staff will assess the child’s emotional state.

Finally, if you have an urgent concern about a person’s safety, call 911. Share the information with police, who will provide direction.

In a digital world, we all have a role in educating students about the opportunities and challenges of interacting online. Families must be vigilant and aware of what children are doing online. We can all help keep children safe and respond appropriately when we have concerns.

Sincerely,
Ms Neale