Back-to-School? Time for a Chat
Back-to-school time used to mean a certain excitement for kids as they re-connected with friends that they had not seen during the summer. Now though, with the ease of connecting over the Internet, children do not have to experience prolonged separations from friends, and this may also include exposure to bullies.
As an Internet safety advocate for nearly four years, I am especially troubled and concerned about the issue of cyberbullying. It is a form of bullying that students cannot leave behind. Study after study suggests that it is rapidly growing and unfortunately, children do not tell parents, guardians, or trusted adults if they have been targeted by cyberbullies. A Million Online Bullies Run Rampant in Cyberspace, a recent study by online identity experts Garlik.com found:
18% of children in the UK between the ages of 8 and 15 have admitted to bullying others electronically
30% said they bullied because it was "fun"
61% of children do not tell parents if they have been targeted by bullies
Cyberbullying is not just harmless fun; it is not just kids being kids. Cyberbullying is serious and can have catastrophic results. Although the Internet is a valuable resource and tool, it is vitally important we talk to our children about the potential risks they may face online and what to do if they encounter a cyberbully.
For nearly four years, Jace Shoemaker-Galloway has championed online safety education in her school and entire region. She has educated over 750 children with personalized lessons plans she has created and implemented. She continues to educate parents and teachers with her regular newspaper column and unique presentations. Visit her award-winning educational resource blog for further information.
