PTAs

The key to involving parents and caregivers in the school community is often through the PTA. NetSafe suggests that PTA's host Parent Information Evenings, where parents are invited into the school to learn about and discuss the school's approach to cybersafety, on a yearly basis.

There are two ways to approach such an evening. One is to actually use school computers to demonstrate basic internet skills and monitoring. This can be an important step for some parents in overcoming their intimidation about the technology as they are free to be beginners in such a situation.

Another type of parent evening can involve inviting a speaker such as a member of NetSafe, your local Police Education Service (YES) Officer or a parent with ICT expertise to address the school community. NetSafe tries to accommodate all requests for such appearances, providing costs are covered. Contact NetSafe on 0508 NETSAFE (638 723) or queries@netsafe.org.nz to enquire about booking a guest speaker.

Either type of evening fosters communication among parents. They will quickly find that they share many concerns and have some excellent strategies to offer each other.

PTAs can also distribute copies of NetSafe's brochures to the school community. There is no charge for any of these resources, which can be ordered here. (Please note that some postage charges may apply.)