Staying Safe in a Digital World: Lessons From Our 5th-Grade Discussion

Darlington recently hosted an important conversation with our fifth-grade students about online safety and the potential risks that come with meeting strangers and interacting with others on the internet. Although this activity was focused on our fifth-graders, the lessons we discussed provide valuable insights for all grades. It’s a good reminder for parents and educators to help students as they continue to learn how to use technology wisely. To make the discussion more engaging and impactful, we invited seniors from Darlington's Senior Ventures Program to join in small-group sessions, providing an opportunity for the younger students to have candid and authentic conversations. This peer-to-peer interaction allowed our fifth-graders to feel more comfortable asking questions and sharing their thoughts in a safe environment.

The goal of the session was to focus on making smart choices, staying safe, and being mindful of the potential dangers online. Here are a few key takeaways from the discussion that we encourage you to continue talking about with your child at home:

Setting Boundaries in Online Chats & Games
Many students enjoy online games and chatting with friends, but it’s crucial to know when to step away from uncomfortable or inappropriate conversations. We encouraged students to come to you if they ever feel uneasy about something they encounter online. Reassure your child that it’s okay to walk away and talk to you about anything that makes them uncomfortable.

Be Cautious About Personal Information
We emphasized the importance of keeping personal information private. Full names, addresses, phone numbers, and other identifying details should not be shared freely, even with people your child may know online. Encourage your child to think before sharing any personal information and to check with you if they’re unsure about something.

Recognizing Online Strangers
Students learned how to recognize when someone online might not be who they claim to be. We discussed how online profiles can be misleading, and how it's essential to be cautious when interacting with anyone they haven't met in person. Talk with your child about how to trust their instincts and approach online interactions with caution.

Keeping Online Profiles Private
Privacy settings are a key part of staying safe online. We talked about the importance of keeping online profiles private, whether on social media or gaming platforms. Take time to review your child's privacy settings together and ensure they understand how to control who can see their personal information.

If Something Feels Wrong, Speak Up
Perhaps the most important takeaway from today’s discussion is that your child should always feel comfortable coming to you if something online doesn’t seem right. Let them know that they can approach you with anything that makes them feel uncomfortable, and you’ll be there to help them navigate it safely.

How You Can Continue the Conversation:

• Ask Questions Regularly: Make it a habit to check in with your child about what they’re doing online, who they’re talking to, and what games or social media platforms they’re using. Ask them to tell you about their experiences and encourage them to share any concerns they might have.
• Set Boundaries Together: Establish guidelines for online behavior, including limiting screen time, creating a schedule for online activities, and ensuring that online games and apps are age-appropriate.
• Reinforce Digital Citizenship: Remind your child that being kind, respectful, and safe online is just as important as being kind and respectful in person. Talk about how they can be good digital citizens by treating others with respect, not sharing hurtful comments, and practicing kindness online.

We believe that fostering a safe and respectful online environment is key to supporting your child’s overall well-being, and we are grateful for your partnership in keeping them safe.