Online safety is a parent’s concern
WITH the release of a new iPad or smart phone every couple of months, a lot of Logan residents would have received the high-tech gadgets as Christmas presents.
And with thousands of the gadgets sold Australia-wide, one federal politician is reminding parents about the dangers associated with their children using these to access the internet.
Federal Member for Forde Bert van Manen said all the latest technological inventions meant new ways for children to access the internet without parental supervision.
"IPods, mini-iPads, x-boxes, smart phones, tablets and laptops can all access the internet," Mr van Manen said.
"On a daily basis, today's children spend a considerable amount of time on social networking sites, messaging apps and online games."
He urged all parents to familiarise themselves with the gifts their children had received, in a bid to help protect them online.
"The internet is great, it has revolutionised all of our lives, yet it's also a real challenge for many parents," he said.
"When I speak to parents, principals and school teachers, I hear they feel ill-equipped to deal with the challenge of protecting children from online dangers.
"The real concern of the parents I talk to is the fear their children will be cyber-bullied.
"The worst thing about cyber-bullying is that a child can't escape it even at home."
He urged all parents to take part in a discussion paper which addressed online safety for Australian children.
The topics outlined in the discussion paper included how to remove material likely to affect children from social networking sites, helping parents and carers make informed decisions about purchasing the latest inventions and providing greater support for schools.
If you would like to learn more about the safety for children online discussion paper, phone 3807 6340.
