Online Safety – a message from TDSB

Dear Parent/Guardian,

Over the past few days, there have been a number of media reports about something called the “Momo Challenge.” This “challenge” is found online and allegedly encourages children, through social media messaging apps, to carry out dangerous tasks, such as harming themselves or others. Quite frankly, we are receiving conflicting reports over what this “challenge” truly entails or if it is even real. While we would never want to perpetuate a hoax, given the significant amount of media coverage and the number of questions we are receiving from staff, parents and students, we felt this was an opportunity to remind parents and children about online safety in today’s digital world.

In the TDSB, schools have been made aware of these reports and can provide further classroom support and encourage good digital citizenship. School social workers are also available should any mental health supports be needed.

Parental awareness and involvement is an important piece too. Being aware of potentially harmful online trends and explaining them to your child in an age appropriate way is valuable. We encourage parents/guardians to keep the dialogue open with your children about their mental health and emotional well-being. Making your home a safe space for these conversations will help ensure your child feels comfortable bringing their questions and concerns forward.

Additionally, the following list can help you keep your children safe while online:

• Make sure the protection features of websites and software your children use are activated. There are tools available through your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to help you manage your children’s online experience (i.e. appropriate Websites, amount of time spent online, who can and cannot contact them). It might also include other security features, such as pop-up ad blockers.
• Get to know the online environments your children use and teach them how to deal with inappropriate material.
• Keep an eye on the sites they’re visiting by keeping the computer in a common area like the kitchen.
• Talk to them about the implications of posting inappropriate pictures, saying disparaging things about other people and anything else that could damage a reputation or ruin a friendship.
• Remind them that the Internet is a public space. Things they do and say now on social networking sites could have implications down the road when they’re looking for summer employment (employers often search personal profiles for information about candidates).
• If your child is using live text and voice chats for online games, warn them not to give personal information to a stranger.

You may find some additional tips at www.cybertip.ca and www.prevnet.ca

As always, should you have any questions or concerns about your child’s well-being, please reach out to the school Principal.

Sincerely,