Social Network Safety Tips

By: Mallory Mayert & Brooke Atkins

Table of Contents

Introduction Why This Topic? Harmful Effects How to Choose A Safe Social

Networking What To Do If Your Child Join

s a Social Network? Safe Social Networks For Chi

ldren Any Questions?

Introduction It’s only natural that children want to join the

trend of social networking. Social networking is based on a certain structure

allowing people to express themselves and meet people with similar interests.

The structure includes: o Profile: containing basic information about

yourself. o Friends: people that are allowed to post

comments to you and send you messages.o Groups: allow you to find people with similar

interests (ex. Ning, Facebook Ed. group.)o Discussions: interactions between groups o Blogs: personal information keeping other

informed and updates with your activities/life.

Why This Topic? Social networking is growing and is

becoming more and more popular especially within our schools.

Social networking is attracting younger children as they are lying about their ages.

As teacher we want to address these issues with parents as it does take places at home.

Overall, we want to address these dangers involved with Social Networking and make them aware of the permanency of the things posted.

Harmful Effects Privacy: Young children are more likely to

post personal information because they don’t fully understand the consequences.

Exposure to inappropriate content: allows an opportunity to come across inappropriate advertising or websites by clicking on links.

Cyber bullying: children are not mature enough to withstand name calling which can cause major damage psychologically.

Harmful Effects Strangers: children tend to sway towards people

with similar interests. Children also have the tendency to compete with one another for a high amount of “friends.”

Cyber Stalking: simple pictures can reveal a lot. It can say things such as: what there home looks like, what school they attend, what they look like and information about their friends/family.

Brain Changes: children that use social networking sites experience a lack of attention and a shaky sense of identity.

Harmful Effects It’s Permanent: Anything done online

will leave a trace. Years from now, those things can be seen by potential employers or colleges which can have a negative effect.

How to Choose A Safe Social Network

1) How can I keep my child safe?2) How often does the website monitor content?3) Does the website have clear safety, security

and privacy policies posted online?4) Will my child be exposed to any inappropriate

content in the form of advertising or links?5) What will my child learn?6) Will I be notified of any dangerous activity?

What To Do If Your Child Joins a Social Network?

1) Discuss why they want to use it? And what they plan to add?

2) Talk about online safety basics, what information should be private.

3) Check their privacy settings.4) Discuss harmful effects5) Take advantage of parental control

features on your computer6) Review your child’s friend list

Safe Social Networks for Children

Club Penguin Webkinz Whyville Facechipz Kidzrocket

Any Questions?