Helpful Hints on Managing Technology at Home

Create an ‘Acceptable Use Agreement’ for your families.  Ensure that children are involved with this process.

Set up safe search and security controls with a platform such as ‘OpenDNS’.

Insist on all computers, laptops and mobile devices remaining OUTSIDE the bedroom.  Recharge mobile devices outside bedrooms at night.

Lights out = wifi off.

Agree on screen time use; decide on ‘screen free’ times during the day and night.

Get involved – show an interest in what your child is doing online.

Talk to child’s teacher/s and school.

If your child reports an issue to you, don’t threaten to take away their device – this may force them to become secretive.

Learn how various social network/game services work.  Use websites such as the ‘Games, Apps & Social Networking’ from eSafety Office.

Tell children not to respond to any cyberbullying threats or comments online. However, (encourage screen shots as evidence) do not delete any of the messages – keep records to verify and prove there is cyberbullying.