Maintaining a Safe Environment
Click on the link below for information to help parents maintain a Safe Environment for their children.
VIRTUS Class Online
Click on the link below for a copy of:Internet Usage Contract
The Internet is a fun and educational resource for children. It can also be a dangerous place. A place where children can come in direct contact with strangers — without parents even knowing. To assist parents below is a link to the Parent Internet Usage Contract. This contract between you and your child(ren) details safe use practices. Please take the time to download, print and review this contract with your child(ren).
Ages 0 – 10:
We should be protecting this group by limiting screen time to no more than one hour per day. Never leave them alone with the internet. Technology is not a babysitter. Do not give children in this age group a smart phone. Give them a flip phone like Firefly that has emergency contacts only.
Ages 11-18:
Limit screen time to 2 hours in middle school and 3 hours in high school. Light from screens over stimulates their brains. Their brains need a rest. No technology in the bedroom. Know your child’s user name and passwords. Use Covenant Eyes or the like to help you monitor their use. Tell your child that you want to protect him/her. You would not allow a bad person unlimited access to your children; yet, that is what you are doing by allowing unlimited access on media devices.
Safe Haven
www.catholicmutual.org
CMG Connect Parents (on right column)
Sign in for free. It is available in English and Spanish.
- A Safe Haven Starts at Home recommends viewing the DVD Covenant Eyes which can be borrowed from the Office of Catechesis and Formation (859-392-1500)
- How To Set Up Parental Controls on iOS
- Education on Instagram
- How to Set Up Parental Controls on Your Kindle Fire HD
APPS
www.ProtectYoungEyes.com
This website explains apps that kids use. It explains parental controls on popular devices. It includes APPS, Devices, Resources, Chromebook and Current Trends.
Social Media Topics
www.awiredfamily.org
Stephen J. Smith posts articles on a variety of social media topics including “The Impact of Sexualized Media on Children”, “Social Media and Teen Depression”, “Impact of Bullying and Cyber-bullying on Teens and Tweens”, “Your Child and the Dark Web.”
Human Sexuality
Teaching our children about human sexuality is part of a parent’s responsibility. Please click on the link below for available resources.
Pornography
Resources are available to support parents and caregivers in discussing the dangers of pornography addiction. Please click on the link below for educational resources.
Drugs
Drug Free Clubs of America is a website with material for parents, educators and students. It focuses on teens. Some of our high schools do random drug testing with the students. Parent resources include ideas for talking with your child about drugs.