What Every Parent Should Know About Online Safety
In today’s digital age, our young people are more connected than ever—using technology for learning, socialising, and entertainment. While the internet offers incredible opportunities, it also presents real challenges. As part of our ongoing commitment to student wellbeing, we want to highlight the importance of cybersafety and digital wellbeing.
The Risks and Realities of Online Life
From cyberbullying and online predators to exposure to inappropriate content and excessive screen time, the digital landscape can be overwhelming. Social media has become a central part of teenage life, often influencing self-esteem and emotional wellbeing. Many teens are communicating more through screens than face-to-face, which can impact their ability to develop critical social skills. What’s more, their digital reputation—the image they create of themselves online—can have lasting consequences. Friendships, relationships, and even future job prospects may be affected by what is shared online. Once something is posted, it can be difficult to remove, especially with the rise of AI tools that can alter and redistribute content quickly.
How Parents Can Help
Cybersafety is not just about restrictions—it’s about empowerment.
Here are some practical ways you can support your child:
- Open Communication: Talk regularly about their online experiences. Create a safe space for them to share concerns.
- Privacy Settings: Help them manage privacy settings on social media to protect their personal information and reputation.
- Digital Etiquette: Encourage respectful and thoughtful online behaviour.
- Balanced Use: Promote healthy boundaries around screen time and encourage offline activities.
- Parental Controls: Use tools to monitor and guide their digital interactions, especially for younger teens.
We encourage you to read the latest article on SchoolTV addressing the alarming rise in cyberbullying cases being reported to the eSafety Commission. This resource provides valuable insights into the legal consequences of online abuse and offers practical steps for parents and students to take if they encounter harmful content.
Technology is here to stay, and when used responsibly, it can be a powerful tool for learning and connection. By working together—school, parents, and students—we can help our young people thrive in a digital world while staying safe, respectful, and resilient.
Further resources on cybersafety, can be found on schoolTV https://opac.nsw.schooltv.me/ and the eSafety Commission website – www.esafety.gov.au
God bless,
Ms Alison Menzies
Deputy Head of Senior School – Health and Wellbeing
