Internet safety topic of new parent resource

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The Government of Alberta has a new resource for parents and caregivers to teach them how to help their children navigate the internet.

Launched earlier this month, Internet Savvy provides information for those who wish to know as much as possible about the digital world their children inhabit. The online course covers a wide variety of topics, such as potentially risky behaviour, including sharing sensitive personal information and talking online with strangers; using social media sites (Facebook, Twitter, tumblr.); online marketing aimed at children and teens; downloading ‘free’ content (movies, music); researching on the internet and identifying credible websites; online bullying; and online sexual exploitation.

“In today’s online society, with constant access to social media, it can be difficult for parents to know how to protect and support their children,” Dave Hancock, Minister of Human Services, said in a news release. “Internet Savvy gives parents the tools to keep Alberta’s children safe from online predators.”

To access Internet Savvy and other online resources, visit humanservices.alberta.ca

This new online resource falls right in line with the Airdrie Public Library (APL) priority focusing on information fluency. In an effort to ensure that community members are able to find, evaluate and effectively use information, APL offers several avenues of learning when it comes to the internet. From specific courses to regular programs to our information services, APL is a resource for knowledge. Ironically, many reputable resources for parents and caregivers wishing to become internet-savvy are available online, and APL is here to help them discover what they need in order to stay connected.

To connect with your child at a much younger age, APL is hosting Talk by Two for parents and caregivers. Presented by Alberta Health Services (AHS) March 4, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the program covers the stages babies go through when learning to talk; essential building blocks for speech and language development; and techniques to help young children communicate. The program is for adults only, but childcare will be provided. Registration is required by calling AHS at 403-955-1300.

For more information on this or any of our programs and services, contact APL at 403-948-0600 or visit us online at www.airdriepubliclibrary.ca