COUNSELLOR NEWS
Keeping Safe Online
During this time of online learning, our children are spending more time on the internet than usual. In order for our children to safely enjoy the benefits of the internet, it is important for parents and caregivers to be aware of its associated risks. Unsupervised access to the internet increases your child’s risk of exposure to inappropriate material, sites that are not child friendly, or expose them to situations that could cause harm. To protect your child from risk, here are some simple steps to follow:
- Discuss with your child the rules for technology use (i.e. what internet sites are appropriate; limit after hours use)
- Use parent controls (found within the settings on your device) to block specific sites and manage time online
- Check your privacy settings on all devices to keep your personal information safe
- Ensure your child can be easily monitored while online (i.e. only accessing the internet in a central room in the house or in line of sight)
- Intermittently check the search history
- And limit screen time, where possible.
For more information related to keeping safe online please access the resources listed below.
Resources for parents and carers to support safe online learning:
- Think U Know - https://www.thinkuknow.org.au/for-parents-and-carers
- Online safety kit for parents and carers - https://www.esafety.gov.au/about-us/blog/covid-19-online-safety-kit-parents-and-carers
- Taming the Technology - https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents/skills-advice/taming-technology
- Parentline 1300 30 1300 - https://parentline.com.au/
Free online webinars created by the eSafety Commissioner:
- My House, My Rules (suitable for parents/carers and primary aged children to participate together). Sessions: 8th May 11.30-12.00 pm; 12th May 11.30-12.00 pm; 14th May 11.30-12.00 pm. Registration link - https://register.gotowebinar.com/rt/2707460927900082190
- Keeping Safe and Healthy Online (suitable for children ages 7-12 years old). Session: 6th May 10.30-11.00 am. Registration link - https://register.gotowebinar.com/rt/4010253563954144270
- Keeping Your Sanity and Supporting Your Kids Online (suitable for parents and carers). Sessions: 4th May 1.00 pm-1.30 pm; 6th May 8.30 – 9.00 pm; 12th May 8.30 – 9.00 pm. Registration link – https://register.gotowebinar.com/rt/9112745080346428942
For Prep and Grade 1 Families
We are looking forward to welcoming our Preps and 1s back on campus next week! While some children may welcome this change, others may find it a little more difficult. If you are looking for some hints and tips on how to support your child with this transition, you’ll find some relevant resources on School Counsellor Connect. Similarly, if you and your child are needing a little extra support please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Anne Woodcroft-Brown
School Counsellor