This document discusses keeping up with children's online activities. It notes that children are engaging in texting, gaming, chatting, video creation and sharing, and social media use. It outlines some of the technologies they use like cellphones, cameras, computers and game consoles. It then discusses some of the issues children may face online like cyberbullying, inappropriate content, security threats and identity theft. It provides some golden rules and practical steps parents can take to help children stay safe online, such as talking to them about their online activities, setting rules, checking their websites and downloads, and developing positive cybercitizenship values.

1. Keeping up with our Kids OnlineRachel Roberts

2. “Don’t limit a child to your own learning, for she was born in a different time”

3. What are kids doing?TxtingGamingChattingIMBebo, Facebook, MySpaceSkypeCreating & publishing – VideosFile Sharing

4. What Technologies?CellphonesCamerasComputersGame stationsIpods

6. IssuesCyberbullyingSexual PredatorsInappropriate materialDigital FootprintSecurity ThreatsMarketingIdentity Theft

7. EducationPolicyInternet Management

8. Golden Rules Keep your personal information private including your name, phone number, address & passwords. Turn off the computer if you feel uncomfortable with what you are seeing on the screen & tell an adult (parent or teacher) Remember, not everyone on the Web is who they say they are. Never agree to meet someone in person who you have met online. Don't share photos of yourself with strangers. Treat others with respect online and don't say or do things that are unkind.

9. Practical StepsTalk to your children when they are online. What are you playing/watching?Who are you talking to?Make rules/agreements if you think it’s necessaryAmount of time onlinewhat sites are appropriateCommunicating with othersKeep the computer in a family area

10. Go online with your children Check up on your children – visit their Bebo sites, check the internet history, check what’s been downloaded.Keep your computer healthyUp to date virus software (avg free)Check your firewall settingsScan for malware (adaware, spybot)

11. Developing positive values & attitudes is key “Cybercitizenship”http://www.netsafe.org.nz