The ABC's of Internet Safety

While the basic skills remain vital, of course, it’s no secret that education has been enhanced – and, in many respects, complicated – by the rapid proliferation of technology.  

Used correctly and responsibly, it’s an invaluable, indispensible tool. Used carelessly, recklessly, and illicitly, it can create dangerous and damaging consequences for the naïve and uninformed and those uninitiated in the nuances of the latest devices and hazards lurking in cyberspace. Pro-active attention to the issue is essential.

“Technology has become ubiquitous with social media and all the constant smart phone use,” said Middle School head Charlie Blair. “We have to help children understand how to use it appropriately.  That means being safe and being decent.”

Today, Katie Greer, an expert in the field of Internet safety, visited Collegiate to instruct 6th graders, their parents, and their faculty about appropriate use of technology. Her presentation covered a wide range of topics, all of which boiled down to positive, thoughtful decision-making.

“Sixth grade is an age before kids become completely active in the use of social media,” said Sally Chambers, Middle School counselor. “We’re catching them before they’ve gotten online and are using different apps.  We’re working with parents and kids together.  It gives everyone a chance to build some good habits.”

During a break in her busy day, Greer, the founder of KL Greer Consulting, spoke of her calling, vision, and passion.

What inspired you to become such a staunch advocate for Internet safety?

It was really serendipitous.  I didn’t know what I wanted to do after college.  Then I had a great job (in the Massachusetts Attorney General’s office) in  an Internet Crimes Against Children unit.  I learned very quickly that things were happening that I didn’t know about.  I thought it was important to be pro-active and have conversations with kids about how they can equip themselves to keep themselves safe online.  I didn’t want to stop once I started.

What’s the best advice you give kids?

Whether it’s online on a computer or in an app or social networking, make technology work for you, not against you.  I struggle with finding a name to call this program.  Internet safety?  Digital safety? Social media?  It encompasses everything that is today and will be tomorrow.

What’s the best advice you give parents?

Be involved. Oftentimes, parents are so overwhelmed by these technologies that it’s easy to close our eyes and pray that things go OK.  That’s not enough. Kids are spending as many as seven-and-a-half hours a day in front of some sort of device.  Being involved is imperative to their safety and wellbeing. It they aren’t actively involved with spot-checking and talking with them about their activities, just like they’re doing offline, that’s when we get into trouble.

What’s the best advice you give educators?

To be vigilant and to also be aware that just because these things happen at home doesn’t mean they won’t spill into the school day.  If a child comes to school distracted, we have to be aware that it may have to do with something online. Keep our ears to the ground.  Kids aren’t too young for this stuff.  

Who has the ultimate responsibility for Internet safety?

It definitely takes a village.  Everyone has to be on the same page, which can be a challenge sometimes, regardless of what it involves.  We have to come together, have each other’s backs, take care of each other’s kids.  

What’s the greatest tech-related threat to kids?

My biggest concern, for sure, is kids talking to strangers online. The danger of talking to somebody behind a screen when you’re online is a hard concept to understand.  There’s a false sense of security.  I see kids connecting with people they don’t know at increasing rates. That worries me.

Is this the classic admonition don’t-talk-to-strangers admonition taken to another level?

We have this stranger-danger conversation with our kids when they’re in kindergarten but then don’t think they need it in middle school or high school.  They have unlimited access to strangers now.  This is no longer the playground.  This conversation about strangers absolutely needs to continue.

Why is Internet safety such a passion for you?

I love kids.  I’m so excited for them to be able to use these technologies.  I feel like it’s my personal responsibility to make sure kids are smart about what they’re doing.  It doesn’t take a lot.  It just takes some conversation.   Kids are moving and shaking in really good ways. I’d like to take them by their shoulders and say, “Use this stuff.  Do something good with it.  Don’t do anything bad.  It’s really great if you can follow the rules and do the right thing.”
               -- Weldon Bradshaw