Technology is all around us. Mobile devices and software found on tablets, desktops, Chromebooks, and the-like have greatly enhanced how we create, design, write, and communicate in the classroom and among peers.
While these assistive technologies are helpful, we must be mindful of how best to lead a balanced and healthy digital lifestyle for success in school and at home. WOSU Public Media's Digi-Fit campaign asks students to be mindful of their digital 1) Well-being 2) Citizenship 3) Etiquette 4) and Safety. With each Digi-Fit category, students make a pledge to uphold good practices with "I will" statements.
WellnessBalance is best.
I will maintain a balance between digital and face-to-face interactions in life.
Try this at home:
- Consider using a screen time app yourself.
- Suggest integrating technology into physical activity like taking photos while hiking or use it to track exercise.
- Create a family media plan. Is there a cutoff time for phone or computer use at night in order to get a good night's sleep?
- Avoid using a device in idle moments like waiting in a line or sitting in a car (especially while driving).
- Ask: How do you handle when someone is ignoring you while using their device?
- Videos: Device Free Dinner
SafetyBe Aware.
I will be safe online and protect private information
Try this at home:
- Help children develop good password habits. Never share a password with someone and make passwords unique, easy to remember, and not easily identifiable.
- Explore your phone's Privacy Settings. Make sure that everyone is aware of which apps have assess to your location data.
- Educate yourself on human trafficking/predator tactics. This impacts every community. (startnow.org)
- Social Media Family Discussions (Video: Generation Like)
- 5 Internet Safety Tips for Kids (Video: Common Sense Media)
- **As a reminder, many social media platforms require children with parent permission to be at least 13 years of age before making an account.
EtiquetteIt’s Cool to be Kind.
I will choose to be positive with others online.
Try this at home:
- Google yourself with your child and then do the same with their name.
- Remind your child to not engage in internet or text-based rumors and gossip that can have real life implications and hurt others.
- Pay attention to the words your child uses when playing online video games. "Trash talk" should not involve derogatory language.
- Netiquette (Video: YouTube): How do we behave online, on Chromebooks, and among peers in the digital age?
- Videos: 5 Internet Safety Tips for Kids
- Perspectives on Media Use
CitizenshipBe Elite.
I will be responsible and honest in today’s digital world.
Try this at home:
- Discuss journalism with your child: why it exists, how it can help, and how it can manipulate or inform consumers.
- For high schoolers: Help your child create a professional profile in social media like LinkedIn.
- Be honest, let your child know this is hard for everyone.
- Direct your children away from trying to become "viral" for something unintelligent or negative.
- Video: screenagersmovie.com
T.H.I.N.K.
As an extension of our Digi-Fit campaign in the South-Western City School District, we encourage staff and families to talk with students about examining their digital footprint through the lens of T.H.I.N.K.
Additional Resources: