As children and young people head back to school, it is a good time to think about how we use the internet. Increasingly, our learning, friendships, and social connections happen online, as well as in person at school and church and we need to focus on engaging with the online world safely, setting sensible limits on device use, and modelling good online behaviour ourselves. Having regular conversations about online safety which may include possible online grooming are key in keeping the internet safe. We should also be mindful about time spent on devices as the social skills developed through face-to-face interactions are essential. Children should always feel they can talk to a trusted adult if they come across something online that makes them feel worried, scared, or uncomfortable. Adults can report harmful content direct to the online platform itself or to the eSafety Commissioner. We can all play a part in keeping the internet safe for everyone by setting rules and limits around device use, which games, apps, and websites children can use and who they can interact with online. On Safer Internet Day, Tues 11th Feb, we should all reflect on how we use the internet and help to make it a safer place for everyone.
An Activity Sheet for children to make a Chatterbox is available to download below & is also available in our churches.
The Archdiocesan Integrity and Safeguarding Department is available for advice on safeguarding matters on 8210 8150 or caasafeoperations@adelaide.catholic.org.au
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