Dear Parents and Guardians,
Today is Safer Internet Day, and with our students navigating an increasingly complex digital world, there has never been a better time to check in on their online habits.
👮 A Special Visit from the Community Gardaí
To mark the day, we were delighted to welcome our local Community Gardaí to the school. They spoke with all pupils about the importance of being "Streetwise" online.
The sessions were age-appropriate but direct, focusing on:
- Not sharing personal information like names, addresses or ages online
- Only playing and chatting with people they know in real life
- How to ‘Stop, Block and Tell’ if the children see anything inappropriate or upsetting
The students were highly engaged, and we encourage you to ask them what they learned from the Gardaí’s visit this evening!
🛡️ 3 Quick Wins for Online Safety
- The "Front Door" Rule: Encourage your child to use devices in common areas. Keeping screens out of bedrooms is the simplest way to monitor content.
- Privacy Check: Take 5 minutes tonight to review settings on apps like Roblox or Discord. Ensure profiles are set to "Private" or "Friends Only."
- The "Pause" Principle: Teach them to wait 10 seconds before posting. If they wouldn't want a teacher or grandparent to see it, they shouldn't hit send.
💬 Start the Conversation
The most effective filter isn't software—it's communication. Try asking:
- "What did the Gardaí say today that surprised you the most?"
- "Do you know how to block or report someone if they are being mean?"
- "If you saw something scary online, who is the first person you would tell?"
Pro Tip: Let your child know that if they make a mistake online, they can come to you without fear of their device being confiscated. When children fear losing their devices they are less likely to report real dangers.
More information can be found on www.webwise.ie and this Guide for Parents available through cybersafekids.ie may also be helpful to you in keeping your child safe.
Yours faithfully,
Annette O’Brien
Principal
