Boys & Girls Clubs of America Cyber Safety

Kids are going online younger and younger, especially with kids getting cellphones and tablets. I know I’m guilty of letting my kids online. My 11 year old just got her first smartphone a couple months ago. Being online comes with a lot of responsibility for the child but also a lot on the parent to make sure there are ground rules to the usage and also checking on what the child is looking at or who they are talking to. Boy’s and Girl’s Club of America is trying to teach parents and kids cyber safety. I participated in an Influencer Activation Program on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for BGCA. I received a promotional item to thank me for my participation.

I myself and very comfortable with the online world. I am a blogger, I have a degree in multimedia web design, and am also a social media manager. I definitely have an advantage, so it makes it easier on me, but it’s not that way for everyone. The Boys & Girls Club of America has made a site dedicated to cyber safety. If you have questions you can ask them to the Cyber Tribe. They even has quizzes you can take to see how much you know and what you can learn.

Here are a few tips on cell phone usage:

Talk with your child about proper cell phone etiquette, such as places and times where it is appropriate to use cell phones and where and when it is not. If your child has a smart phone or other device with Internet access, remind him/her that the Internet safety rules in your family apply to the mobile device as well. 

1. Model good cell phone behaviors for your child. Your child watches you while you use the phone.
2. Establish technology free times and zones. For example, set a rule that cell phones and mobile technology are not used at the family dining table or during homework time. And then make sure you follow the rules yourself!
3. Make it clear that texting while driving is dangerous and unacceptable.
4. Establish with your child that you will periodically check his cell phone.
5. Check the monthly statement for unusual charges or activity. Talk with your child if anything in the bill raises questions.

They have included sites to help give parents cell phone tips like common sense media. 

There really is no way to think of every situation and talk to your child beforehand, but as things come up there are resources that will help you in how to approach and talk to your child about them.

Even though I am very comfortable with social media and the internet, there are still times that I won’t know exactly what to say. I am so thankful that the Boys & Girls Clubs of America has this site out there for parents.

I highly suggest you ask your own questions to the cyber tribe. Everyone who submits a question is entered for a chance to win an iPad mini and $500 to the Boys & Girls Club of your choice!

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