Help children navigate our digital world

A pair of friends hangs out after school via FaceTime to connect for a virtual play date, and the room is filled with sounds of the 6-year-olds giggling with excitement.

One of the friends holds up his device so the other can see and interact with the latest Minecraft building extravaganza game on PlayStation.

For the students of Mesa Public Schools, it’s imperative they master computer skills for the 21st century job market. Most children know their way around electronic devices when it comes to socializing and gaming, and parents can ensure their children are properly using technology to succeed in school.

“Social media is here to stay, and the earlier children learn how to be responsible technology users, the better,” said Laura Wojciechowicz, educational technology trainer at Mesa Public Schools. “Communicating with your children about it is the biggest key.”

Monitor the amount of time your children are on devices. Set limits, and find the right digital balance for your family. “While limits are important, so is being flexible and willing to negotiate,” Laura said.

Educate yourself about how your children are using the Internet. Ask them to share with you what they are learning. Check received and sent emails, look at the Internet history, and review saved photos. Are they socializing, playing games or doing homework?

“Parents should friend their children on social media,” shared Brenda Franks, computer teacher at Fremont Junior High School. “Make sure your social media settings are set to private, and teach children to only friend people they know in real life. It’s about being safe, not famous.”

Coach children to be cautious about what they are posting online. Explain the fact those posts never go away. Future employers, colleges and scholarship opportunities could be affected by information posted online.

“If you don’t want it on a bulletin board at school, it should not be posted online,” Brenda stated.

Create a dialogue with your children. This serves to open communication lines. Reassure them that if they feel unsafe with someone online, they can come to you and discuss it.

For additional digital safety information, please visit www.mpsaz.org/edtech/resources/cybersavvy/teens.