As more of kids’ daily lives move online, the need for strong digital safety skills is growing. That’s why Google’s Online Safety Roadshow made a stop at Immaculata High School on Monday, to teach students how to navigate the internet safely, responsibly, and with kindness. Hundreds of students in Grades 4 to 6 from across the Ottawa Catholic School Board took part in the assembly-style event, which included interactive scenarios on spotting scams, strengthening passwords, and knowing what to do when something doesn’t feel right online. “We want to make sure our kids leave our system prepared and understand the implications and innovations that come with technology and how they can grow and leave a positive digital footprint in the world,” says Julian Daher, coordinator of the learning technologies department for the Ottawa Catholic District School Board. While the sessions were designed for students, organizers say parents should be paying attention to cyber safety as well. “We really do think that by bringing these lessons to life in an engaging and interactive presentation, kids take back those lessons and implement them,” Laurence Therrien with Google Canada says. “Have conversations with their parents, their siblings, in the schoolyard, in the classroom and that’s where we see the biggest impact.” Ottawa-based digital literacy organization MediaSmarts joined Google at the event, highlighting quickly risks can change in the digital world. “Just because you grew up with technology, because it’s always been around you doesn’t mean you’re any more sophisticated a user and you’re any better at it,” says Kathryn Hill, executive director of MediaSmarts. “You still need a lot of support and guidance, and we know that citizens of all ages need to be learning all the time.” The event – held during Media Literacy Week – aims to empower kids with the confidence to explore online spaces without fear. Google says its safety roadshows will continue visiting schools across Canada in the coming months, with hopes of reaching thousands more students. MediaSmarts has interactive videos on their website and encourages parents to watch alongside their children.
