Digital citizenship: Online behaviour, safety and responsibility

In today’s digital era, there is a growing need for online behaviour that mirrors our conduct in the physical world. The current generation is highly proficient in navigating the digital landscape, using the internet for a wide range of activities. However, it’s crucial to ask whether they adhere to any established norms for online safety and security. Do parents feel reassured when their children are immersed in online activities? Let’s delve into the insights shared by the Blogchatter community.

Positive online behaviour is the crux

Internet users should be respectful to anyone and everyone they come across on the web, especially because they are unaware of the credibility of the other user. It’s essential to keep your personal information secure and not to share it with anyone at any cost.

Teach the kids to find credible sources for their research

Parents need to guide their children about what and from where to research their educational queries. Schools also help by providing .edu or .org websites. Our community parents are keen on advising their kids and seeing if they are following the right path.

Online relationships and friendships can be risky

As much as online networking is rewarding, it’s risky because the real identity is unknown. Children should be taught not to share any personal information on the internet especially login credentials or buying information, addresses etc.

Digitalization can be used to contribute to good causes

Schools play an important role in discussing topics that you feel can help to improve society. Various workshops help children to understand how they can be a role models for many others through voicing out their opinions on the internet. This way they can form a small tribe online and work collectively towards creating awareness.

Treating online and offline behaviour equally

Both worlds have some limitations and codes of conduct. Remember to behave the same online too especially to strangers as you would have behaved respectfully to them offline too. The best way to teach children is to show yourself and they will gradually follow you.

Benefits of digital citizenship

Answers to many topics are available online which can help children to understand better if they shy away from asking elders or parents. Proper guidance and an open conversational atmosphere are important to maintain at home so that kids become free in discussing any kind of issues they are facing problems with.

As we grow ahead as digital citizens, our responsibility towards making this society safe and secure increases. Be alert and use the internet to your advantage taking care of all the precautions you need to take for the security of yourself and your family. You can also read about #SafeInternetForKids here.