Sadly, we are beginning to see an upward tick in the number of problems reported from children’s behaviour online; we are receiving complaints about messages and content sent by children out-of-school when on social media or playing online games. It’s a small number of problems for now, but we’d rather it was none at all as we recognise the impact that online behaviour can have on children’s wellbeing, our main concern.
Some of the reported behaviour goes completely against the values we promote in school and this is always disappointing to see. Some of it recently has been unkind and disrespectful.
In next Monday’s assembly, we will be reminding children of the importance of being kind online. There will be age-appropriate follow-up and discussion in class throughout the week. The children will be given positive tips and advice and also a reminder that behaviour online leaves a footprint and can get people into trouble with the law and/or with us here at school.
We’ll be referring to these two useful resources to help us set our expectations:
As we continue to strive for a positive and inclusive online environment for our children and their families, we want to highlight the importance of promoting kindness online. It’s crucial for us to instil in our children the values of empathy, respect, and kindness towards others, even in the digital world. Here are some tips that can help you guide your child in being kind online:
Think before you post
Encourage your child to pause and think before they post anything online. Remind them that once something is posted, it can be difficult to take it back. Encourage them to consider how their words or actions may impact others and if it aligns with being kind and respectful.
Use positive language
Encourage your child to use positive and uplifting language online. Discourage the use of derogatory or hurtful language, and remind them to always communicate in a respectful and kind manner, even when expressing differing opinions.
Respect differences
Teach your child to respect and appreciate the diversity of opinions, cultures, and backgrounds online. Encourage them to engage in constructive discussions and debates without resorting to insults, bullying, or derogatory comments.
Stand up against cyberbullying
Educate your child about the harmful effects of cyberbullying and encourage them to be an upstander, not a bystander. Teach them to report any instances of cyberbullying they come across and to offer support to the victim in a kind and compassionate manner.
Avoid spreading rumours or gossip
Remind your child that spreading rumours or gossip online can cause harm and hurt to others. Encourage them to verify information before sharing it, and to refrain from engaging in gossip or spreading unconfirmed information that can potentially harm others.
Respect others’ privacy
Teach your child to respect others’ privacy online, including not sharing or forwarding personal information, photos, or videos without consent. Encourage them to be mindful of the boundaries and privacy of others in their online interactions.
Lead by example
Model kindness and empathy in your own online behaviour. Children learn from observing their parents and caregivers, so be mindful of your own online actions and interactions, and strive to be a positive role model for your child.
By promoting kindness online, we can create a safe, inclusive, and positive online environment for our children. Thank you for your partnership in helping us foster a culture of kindness and respect in school and across our wider community.