More than 100 countries worldwide celebrated Safer Internet Day on Feb. 7 to raise awareness about the benefits and risks of connected technology. ConnectSafely, the official US coordinator of this international event sponsored virtual events for families and provided resources for classrooms and community organizations, reaching more than 80,000 students.
“Safer Internet Day is a day when everyone can take some time to think about and talk about ways we can each help make the internet a better and safer place for ourselves, our families, our communities and the world,” said ConnectSafely CEO Larry Magid. “How we behave and treat others online makes a difference, and we all have a role to play.”
As part of the global theme, Together for a Better Internet, ConnectSafely offered programs and resources on a variety of topics with a particular focus on six main topic areas:
- Generative AI
- Media literacy and critical thinking
- Civility
- Picking on peers (aka cyberbullying)
- Wellness, identity and self-respect
- Scams, predators and creeps
- Virtual events and resources for families
In partnership with National PTA, ConnectSafely offered a national virtual video event, Smart Digital Parenting: Navigating Screens with Children & Teens, featuring parent and education experts Kerry Gallagher from ConnectSafely and Mikki Wilson from National PTA.
ConnectSafely also encouraged families to have their own “events” at home. Resources, including guides, quick guides, videos and slides, can be found at SaferInternetDay.us/family-program.
First Device campaign
Safer Internet Day also launched the First Device campaign, created by international children’s charity Power of Zero in partnership with ConnectSafely and other NGOs across North and South America. This program was designed to guide families during the significant time when a child receives their first electronic device.
Launch of ConnectSafely Youth Advisory Council
On Safer Internet Day, ConnectSafely launched its new Youth Advisory Council to provide a platform for youth to share their perspectives, discuss digital issues, and contribute to developing strategies that promote positive online experiences. Students will hone their leadership skills and have opportunities to blog, voice their opinions and observations, and become active partners with ConnectSafely and its industry partners.