Digital Citizenship - Engaging in Conversation with Kids

Teaching our children about digital citizenship is a 24/7 job. Every time they use a piece of technology, there is the opportunity to discuss appropriate ways to use the tool. It is also important to discuss when technology is being used inappropriately and engage your children in honest conversation about their options and possible consequences of their actions. Here are some role-playing scenarios to help start conversation about the nine themes of digital citizenship.

Scenario 1: A friend stumbled upon a website at home with inappropriate pictures. The next day at school, he pulls up the site in the library after school and shares it with you. How do you respond? (Digital Access)

Scenario 2: You want a subscription to a game site but need your parents’ credit card. Dad is out working in the yard and his wallet is sitting on the kitchen counter. (Digital Commerce)

Scenario 3: You had a bad day at school. When you get home you went straight to Facebook and posted some negative comments about a teacher to share with your friends. What can happen? (Digital Communication)

Scenario 4: You have a science research project due in a few days but you are having trouble finding information. What resources are available?

(Digital Literacy)

Scenario 5: Two friends have a sleepover where they make dance videos together. After the sleep over, one friend decides to post the videos to You Tube without permission. (Digital Etiquette)

Scenario 6: A student leaves her computer without logging out of her email account. Another student walks by, sees the "open" account, and sends vicious emails using the other girl's identity. You see everything that has happened. What are your options? (Digital Law)

Scenario 7: A number of your friends have Facebook accounts but your parents say you are too young. A friend offers to make an account for you. What are the consequences? (Digital Rights and Responsibilities)

Scenario 8: You like to go bed at 9:30 but your friends go to bed later than you. They wake you up with their late night messaging. (Digital Health and Wellness)

Scenario 9: You begin getting text messages from a number you don't recognize. (Digital Security)

Scenario 10: You get a message from someone you just met online playing games. What information is OK to give them? What should you watch out for? (Digital Security)