Cyberbullying is the use of technology, such as cell phones and the Internet, to degrade, harass or humiliate another person or group of people. Parents are instrumental in keeping their children safe from cyberbullys. Below are a few Internet safety tips:

• Monitor your child’s online activities. Keep your computer in a common space like a family room, not in a child’s bedroom.
• Speak regularly with your child about his or her online activities and set boundaries on when your child can use the computer as well as cell phones.
• Talk specifically about cyberbullying and encourage your child to tell you immediately if he or she is the target of cyberbullying.
• Explain that cyberbullying is harmful and unacceptable behavior. Outline your expectations for responsible online behavior and make it clear that there will be consequences for inappropriate behavior such as restricted Internet or cell phone privileges.
• Consider installing parental control filtering software and/or tracking programs. However, don’t rely only on these tools. They are not foolproof against cyberbullies.
• Ask your child for his or her password, if he or she has one. Although your child may view this as an invasion of privacy, concerns for his or her safety may override any privacy concerns.

 

 

STATISTICS

* 41% of children in grades 5-12 do not share with their parents what they do on the Internet

* 24% of students in grades 5-12 have hidden their online activities from their parents

* 31% of students in grades 5-12 have the skill to circumvent Internet filter software

* 61% of students admit to using the Internet unsafely or inappropriately