The internet has become an undeniable part of our children's lives. From homework help to

connecting with friends, the online world offers incredible opportunities. However, it also

presents potential risks that every parent needs to be aware of. As our kids navigate this digital

landscape, our role as protectors extends beyond the physical world.

This isn't about banning screens or becoming tech experts overnight. It's about staying

informed, having open conversations, and implementing practical strategies to keep our children

safe online. Here are some key things to watch for:

1. Changes in Behavior and Mood:

● Increased secrecy: Are they suddenly hiding their screens, becoming defensive about

their online activities, or quickly closing windows when you enter the room?

● Withdrawal from family and friends: Are they spending significantly more time online

and less time engaging in offline activities they used to enjoy?

● Emotional distress: Are they exhibiting signs of anxiety, depression, anger, or fear after

being online? This could be a sign of cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, or

negative online interactions.

● Sleep disturbances: Excessive screen time, especially before bed, can disrupt sleep

patterns.

2. Online Interactions and Contacts:

● New "friends" or followers: Pay attention to who your child is connecting with online,

especially if they are much older or if you don't know them in real life.

● Requests for personal information: Educate your child never to share personal details

like their full name, address, phone number, school name, or passwords with strangers

online.

● Secretive online relationships: Be concerned if your child becomes overly attached to

someone they've only met online and refuses to talk about them.

● Inappropriate or uncomfortable messages: Encourage your child to come to you

immediately if they receive any messages that make them feel uneasy, scared, or

confused.

3. Online Content and Activities:

● Exposure to age-inappropriate content: This includes violent, sexually explicit, or

hateful material. Be aware of the websites, apps, and games your child is using.

● Cyberbullying: Watch for signs that your child is being harassed, threatened, or

humiliated online, or that they might be engaging in such behavior themselves.

● Unrealistic expectations and body image issues: Social media can often present a

distorted view of reality, leading to self-esteem problems and unhealthy comparisons.

● Excessive gaming or social media use: Monitor the amount of time your child spends

online and ensure it's not interfering with their schoolwork, sleep, physical activity, or

social interactions.

● Online challenges and trends: Be aware of potentially dangerous or harmful online

trends that your child might be tempted to participate in.

4. Digital Footprint and Privacy:

● Over-sharing of personal information: Talk to your child about the permanence of

online posts and the potential consequences of sharing too much information publicly.

● Lack of privacy settings: Ensure your child's social media and other online accounts

have appropriate privacy settings enabled.

● Downloading suspicious files or clicking on unknown links: Educate them about the

risks of malware and phishing scams.

What Can Parents Do?

● Open Communication: Create a safe space where your child feels comfortable talking

to you about their online experiences, both good and bad.

● Establish Clear Boundaries: Set rules and time limits for screen use and specific

guidelines for online behavior.

● Utilize Parental Controls: Explore the parental control features available on devices,

apps, and internet service providers to filter content and monitor activity.

● Stay Informed: Learn about the apps, games, and social media platforms your child is

using.

● Lead by Example: Be mindful of your own screen time and online behavior.

● Educate About Online Safety: Regularly discuss topics like cyberbullying, online

predators, privacy, and responsible online citizenship.

● Know Who They're Connecting With: Encourage your child to only accept friend

requests from people they know in real life.

● Keep Devices in Common Areas: This can help you monitor their online activity.

● Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, investigate further.

What Does iSVA Do?

From the first day of attendance at an iSVA school, students are coached on how to be safe

online. Additionally, our systems have built-in protections such as:

1. Filtering of inappropriate websites

2. Tracking of school-owned equipment use

3. Archiving of communications between students and instructional staff

4. Prohibiting release of information outside of the organization

5. Curating the websites and online resources used in the curriculum

Protecting our children in the digital age requires ongoing vigilance and open communication.

By being aware of these warning signs and taking proactive steps, we can help our kids

navigate the online world safely and responsibly. Let's work together to empower them to be

smart, safe, and ethical digital citizens.