“Digital citizenship” refers to the responsible use of technology by anyone who uses computers, the Internet, and digital devices to engage with society on any level.

Parents can help teach their children to become good digital citizens when engaging in online activity. Here are some free resources that can help us guide our digital natives safely and responsibily while at home or at school.

Raising Digital Children

Teach your children to become good digital citizens with these resources.

Parent Tips:

Cell Phones

Terminology:

• “Geotagging” – allows users to note where they are located in a Smart Phone photo.
• “Sexting” – a term used to describe inappropriate photos or text sent via cell phone

Gaming

Online gaming provides the opportunity to play games from a computer or other streaming device. Some consoles and sites have a social element, as users can play anyone from around the world. Chatting, IM and other social tools exist within these games.

Tips:

• Check to see if the game has moderators.
• Do not accept downloads from strangers including cheat programs. These programs often have viruses or malware that can harm your computer.
• Be a good sport - what you say online should be appropriate. Do not respond to bullying comments.

Instant Messaging and Email

Instant messaging (IM) allows users to correspond online with others. IM can occur through a mobile device or computer with Internet access. Similar to text messaging, IM allows users to correspond in brief text. Popular IM platforms include iMessage, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, SnapChat, and WeChat.

Email also allows users to interact online. Follow the common email usage tips below:

• Privacy – do not share your password with others.
• Unknown - Do not open emails or attachments from an unknown source. Block messages from unknown sources.
• Unsubscribe - Scroll to the bottom of the email and choose unsubscribe to be removed from the list of unwanted emails.
• Use two-factor authentication.