(Atlantic) June is National Internet Safety Month, a time when experts encourage families to talk about safe internet habits, especially as children spend more time online during the summer.
While school is out, more kids are using online devices for entertainment, communication, and learning. That can also bring concerns about screen time, online scams, and what children may be able to access at home.
Atlantic Community School District Technology Coordinator Roger Warne said parents play an important role in helping children use technology safely and responsibly.
Warne said younger students, especially those around 13 or 14 years old, should not be using their devices without supervision. Schools are required to block certain websites on their Wi-Fi, but those same protections may not always apply when students are using school-issued devices at home.
He also said families should be cautious when opening emails or clicking on links. If an email comes from someone unfamiliar, it is best not to click anything and delete it. If the message appears to come from someone they know, he recommends contacting that person another way to confirm whether the email is legitimate.
Warne further encouraged families to think carefully about password safety. He said password length can be more important than complexity, noting that a shorter password may be cracked much faster than a longer one. Using longer passwords can help protect personal accounts.
Warne said another growing concern is how much students rely on technology for answers. With information only one search away, he said computers can take away some of the deeper thinking that helps students learn. He said schools may have to return to more paper-and-pencil learning because it can be better for the brain.
Experts recommend that parents set screen time limits, talk regularly with their children about online safety and encourage a balance between device use, outdoor activities and other hobbies.
