Week promotes being safe online

WITH young children now having access to mobile devices and the internet, it is vital for communities and parents to work to protect them from violence, exploitation and bullying.

Schools, libraries, organisations and workplaces are being encouraged to register for National eSmart Week and showcase their commitment to building a cyber-safe community.

Held from September 2-8 – in line with National Child Protection Week – National eSmart Week creates awareness, solutions and ideas for community education to keep our children safe online.

The week is an initiative of the Alannah & Madeline Foundation, a national charity which works to protect children from violence and bullying.

The framework is now in 2,300 schools around Australia and in 80 per cent of public libraries.

Alannah & Madeline Foundation chief executive officer Lesley Podesta said National eSmart Week was a time for community education about cyber safety, bullying and wellbeing online, and offline.

“No one must be left behind.” eSmart uses a cultural change approach to improve cyber safety, increase digital literacy and reduce cyber bullying across Australia.

Now in its fourth year, the week celebrates online safety through the Foundation’s eSmart Schools, eSmart Libraries and eSmart Digital Licence

Ms Podesta said that we must all work together to raise a generation of smart, safe and responsible children who are capable and compassionate online.

“It’s so important for the community not to fear technology, but to be able to navigate it comfortably, safely and competently. Every child requires digital literacy.

“There are fantastic resources here, including competitions and quizzes. We’re asking schools and libraries to register during the week and learn more about keeping their children safe.”

For more information about National eSmart Week, head to esmart.org.au/esmartweek-2018.