Life for teens and tweens today is drastically different than it was thirty, twenty or even ten years ago. The internet has become a way of life. The internet opens up countless possibilities for kids to learn and access information. In this abundance of information, there is plenty that we do not want our kids or students to come across.
Internet safety is a real issue that parents and teachers need to address. Here are some tips to help keep kids safe online.
29% of teens with smartphones said that they get woken up by notifications on their phone.
Being on screens late at night can also interfere with sleep cycles, and can even result in ADHD-like behavior.
“Children with special needs face the same dangers online as other children, but they may have an even more difficult time recognizing threatening behavior. Because many kids with special needs struggle with reading social cues, managing behavior, and making judgment calls about others, they can be at a higher risk for cyberbullying and online victimization.”
To help your students learn such social cues and other nuances of relationships, check out Circles Intimacy & Relationships: Level 1. This new edition now comes with a whole section on Cyber Safety that clearly outlines the basic guidelines students with special needs can follow to stay safe online.
The statistics are alarming for what social media usage means for kids. There seems to be a disconnect between what is happening and what is best for kids. For example, a Common Sense Media survey found that
54% of teens believed that “If parents knew what actually happens on social media they’d be a lot more worried about it.”
Parents, schools, and teachers need to take a proactive role, educate kids and encourage open communication about their technology use.
By: Amy Curletto
Amy has been teaching for 12 years in grades K-2. She has a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and also has endorsements in reading and ESL. Besides education, her other passion is writing and she has always dreamed of being a writer. She lives in Utah with her husband, her 3 daughters, and her miniature schnauzer. She enjoys reading, knitting, and camping.
The child who is ‘left behind’ most is the one who leaves school without transition readiness.
Dr. James Stanfield, Ed.D.