As part of our commitment to fostering a safe and positive learning environment we want to address the essential topic of online safety. In today's digital age, the internet plays a significant role in our children's lives, offering immense educational opportunities and connectivity. However, it also poses potential risks that we must be aware of and address collectively. 

At St Monica’s we believe that by working together and maintaining open communication we can empower our students to navigate the online world responsibly and safely. Below, we have outlined some key points to guide you in supporting your child's online safety: 

1. Open Dialogue: Initiate and maintain an open and non-judgmental conversation with your child about their online experiences. Encourage them to share any concerns or encounters that may have made them feel uncomfortable. Your support will help them feel more confident in seeking guidance when needed. 
2. Cyberbullying Awareness: Discuss the importance of treating others with respect online. Educate your child about cyberbullying. Let them know they should report any instances of bullying they encounter or witness. 
3. Social Media and Privacy: If your child uses social media or other online platforms, help them understand the importance of safeguarding their personal information. Encourage them to set their profiles to private and to be selective about the people they connect with online. 
4. Responsible Internet Use: Teach your child about the consequences of inappropriate online behaviour, such as sharing sensitive information, engaging in cyberbullying, or accessing inappropriate content. Encourage them to think critically before clicking on links or sharing personal data.  
5. Screen Time Management: Help your child strike a healthy balance between screen time and other activities. Set limits on device usage and encourage them to participate in offline activities. 
6. Safe Online Gaming: If your child enjoys online gaming, make sure they are aware of gaming etiquette and safety guidelines. Remind them to only interact with people they know in real life and avoid sharing personal details during gameplay. 
7. Cybersecurity: Educate your child about the importance of strong and unique passwords. Encourage them to avoid using the same password for multiple accounts and to regularly update them. 
8. Digital Footprint: Explain the concept of a digital footprint and how their online actions can have lasting consequences. Encourage them to think before posting or sharing content online. 
9. Parental Controls and Monitoring: Consider implementing parental control software and monitoring tools to ensure a safe online experience for your child. But remember, open communication and trust should remain a priority.

We understand that online safety is ongoing.  We have booked a Think You Know presentation, which is led by the Australian Federal Police to address these issues proactively.  This session will be held on Monday 23 October 2023, (Term 4 Week 3). Please mark this date in your diary’s.  

Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns regarding online safety. Together, we can create a supportive and secure digital environment for our students.