How can I keep my child SAFE when using ICT?

Talk with your child about your expectations around the use of ICT at your home, at friends' homes, or with mobile devices, such as cell phones and other wifi enabled devices. Just as you watch television with your child, spend time surfing the Internet with your child. The more you learn about what your child is doing with these tools, the better you will be able to keep him or her safe.

Be sure that your child is comfortable in coming and talking with you about any problems experienced online without having to worry about losing access to these tools. Fear of losing access to ICT may prevent children from sharing what is really going on in their ‘digital’ lives.

It is important to remember that the Internet can be a safe place for children to learn and play. Following the guidelines below and using common sense will keep your child safer during travels along the information highway.

If you have a computer, keep it in
a high traffic area of your home.

Information shared online may not remain private.
Be sure that your child is not sharing personal
information, such as his/her full name, address or
phone number with others online.

Children should never agree to meet
someone in person with whom they have
only “met” or talked with online.

Ask your child to tell you about any online
conversations with others that made him or
her feel uncomfortable or frightened.

Ask your child to tell you if he or she is
being bullied. Bullying, whether online
or in person, is unacceptable.

Have your child sign an agreement about your expectations for
using the Internet. This agreement should set out clear rules
for behaviour and consequences of not living up to those rules.

Set limits to how much time your child
spends on the Internet, television and
video games. It is important to stay
physically active to be healthy!

Remind your child that what is done on the Internet
does not disappear after logging off. Photos, videos,
texting and email can be reproduced and cannot be
erased once shared with others.

Always have updated anti-virus software
active on your computer. Tell your child to be
wary of accepting files through texting and
email. Never open unexpected attachments.
These can contain viruses that will allow
others to access your computer.

Visit the "Resources" page to find out where to get more information about online safety.