![Stacy Gill is the editor of the Zachary Plainsman-News and author of the weekly column, "Thinking Out Loud."](http://matchbin-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/public/sites/1087/assets/FPP_Stacy_profile_pic.jpg "Stacy Gill is the editor of the Zachary Plainsman-News and author of the weekly column, "Thinking Out Loud."")
Stacy Gill is the editor of the Zachary Plainsman-News and author of the weekly column, "Thinking Out Loud."
The movie follows the story of a 14-year-old girl who finds "love" via the Internet.
Annie's relationship with a "boy" she believes is a 15-year-old volleyball player involves texting, sexting and phone calls.
When she finally meets her online Romeo, he turns out to be a 30-year-old! What develops next is every parent's worst nightmare, but you have to watch the movie to find out what happens. If this movie doesn't propel you to have a discussion with your tweens and teens about Internet conduct and safety, than nothing will.
It's an unfortunate fact that sexual predators lurk in worlds both real and virtual, but to think your child could never be reached by the far-reaching tentacles of online sickos and creepos would be like sticking your head in the sand and hoping for the best. Because bad things don't happen to you, doesn't mean they don't happen.
If not predatory figures, then what about hackers or identity thieves? Isn't it better to err on the side of caution?
It's important your child is aware of the fundamentals - what we say, how we say it and why we say it - are the same online and off.
Helping your kids navigate their world, both real and virtual, is a conversation worth having. Here are some tips about discussing Internet safety with your family:
•Create an honest and open environment. Kids look to their parents to help guide them. You may not have all the answers but being honest about that goes a long way.
•Initiate conversations - even if your kids are comfortable approaching you, don't wait for them to start the conversation. Use everyday opportunities to talk to your kids about being online.
•Communicate your values clearly. Be up front about your values and how they apply in online context. Communicating values helps kids make smarter and more thoughtful decisions when they're faced with tricky situations.
•Be patient. Most kids need to hear information repeated, in small doses, for it to sink in. If you keep talking with your kids, your patience and persistence will pay off in the long run.
For more information, visit www.4NetSafety.com.
Post a Comment