Hey there! Welcome to the Oakridge International School blog. In this blog, we’ll be discussing about keeping you and your child safe in the ever-changing digital landscape. As a Communications Manager at one of the best international schools, I’ve seen the impact that social media and online activity can have on children’s lives. And let’s be honest, it can be a bit overwhelming for parents to keep up with everything. But fear not, we’ve got you covered.  

In this post, we’ll explore 10 tips and strategies for parents to protect their child’s digital footprint and promote responsible online behavior.  

Let’s dive in!  

• Set clear rules and limits around your child’s internet and device usage, including time limits and guidelines for appropriate websites and social media platforms.
• Monitor your child’s digital activity using parental controls and monitoring tools, but also balance monitoring with trust and open communication. 
• Educate your child about the risks of sharing personal information online and teach them to use strong passwords and be cautious when downloading files or clicking on links. 
• Create an open and honest environment where your child feels comfortable discussing their online activity with you. 
• Be a positive role model and model responsible online behavior yourself, using privacy settings and avoiding sharing personal information that could put you at risk. 

• Teach your child about the importance of consent and respect when it comes to sharing photos and information about others online. 
• Encourage your child to think critically about the information they see online and to fact-check before sharing or reposting. 
• Talk to your child about cyberbullying and how to respond if they or someone they know is being bullied online. 
• Use filtering and blocking software to restrict access to inappropriate content, but also discuss with your child why certain content is not appropriate. 
• Keep up-to-date with the latest online trends and risks, and be prepared to adapt your approach as necessary to ensure your child’s online safety. 

In conclusion, protecting your child’s digital footprint requires a proactive approach. At Oakridge International School, we understand the importance of digital well-being and offer resources and support to help parents navigate the challenges of parenting in the digital age.

Stay informed, stay safe, and let’s all work together to promote responsible digital behavior. 

Thoughts by 

Simranpreet Kaur 

Manager- Communications