When we first started this launch, our theme was ‘Relationships and Communication’. We stated,

“Relationships are built on our understandings of values and beliefs (family, community, cultural community, school). These values impact our behaviours and actions.”

This rings true again for this month’s theme. Cyberbullying is more complex than bullying as internet or any wifi allows a significant amplification of that message. No, it cannot be erased and the old adage of “sticks and stones” do not apply. Watch this video to learn what the RCMP describes as cyberbullying.

Here’s a Cyber Smart Kids Quiz that you can take as a class: https://www.esafety.gov.au/kids-quiz/

Now how does this connect with the person you want to be? Do you have a plan if cyberbullying occurs?

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FOR PARENTS:

While there are many sites that students use and this list can change very quickly, what is important to keep in mind is the way in which sites are able to bring together a networked community. How do we help our children negotiate through, analyze and evaluate the content so they make informed decisions? For example, consider Youtube, Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp. They can be great communities where you learn many things, share your creativity and comment on others’ work. They can also be places where negative comments run rampant. Consider this article, Children Ignore Age Limits by Opening Social Media Accounts. While this is a UK article, it is fairly common to hear in our schools, young students saying they have a personal Facebook or other social media account.

Ask your child where their digital conversations reside or that of their friends. A great conversation starter.