Talking to kids about hate online
Most kids see hate and prejudice in places like games, social networks, and online videos. They also say that they want to do something about it when they see it, but don't know what to do.
Most kids see hate and prejudice in places like games, social networks, and online videos. They also say that they want to do something about it when they see it, but don't know what to do.
MediaSmarts’ research has shown that kids with rules in the home about tech use are less likely to do things like post their contact information, visit gambling or pornography sites and talk to strangers online. Having a family agreement or set of rules for using devices is also a great way for parents and kids to work together on how to be safe, wise and responsible online.
Almost half of youth who have taken and sent a sext say that the recipient then forwarded that image to other people without their consent. This culture of sharing among youth is a real concern and can have devastating consequences for the person in the picture and the person who forwards it.
Youth want clear and simple online privacy policies to better understand online consent
We’ve put together some of our best resources to help you and your family manage during these uncertain times.
Even though you're competing against peer pressure and million-dollar marketing campaigns, research has shown that kids are less likely to get involved in smoking or vaping if they've discussed them with their parents. Talking to our kids about tobacco and cannabis advertising will help them to recognize when they're being advertised to and identify the tricks companies use to normalize teen smoking and vaping, and make their products seem safer and less addictive than they really are.
Here are some tips on talking to kids about vaping, tobacco and cannabis advertising.
If you’re wondering how to get started making media on your phone, tablet or computer, animation is a great place to start. You can start doing it as a family activity even when kids are very young and they’ll soon be able to do almost everything themselves.
MediaSmarts is pleased to offer an online course for teachers on media making in K-12 classrooms. Educators can take this interactive, engaging and informative course from their home, on their own schedule. The course will be offered July 5-30, 2021. The registration fee is $50.00 for teachers and $25.00 for student teachers.
Making Media Across the Curriculum will provide teachers with training and resources on how to use digital media production of various kinds (games, film and animation, etc.) in their classroom practice.
One of the best ways of fighting hate is to report it to the service or site that hosts the content.
Seven in ten kids say they would be more likely to respond to prejudice online if the website or app they were using had clear and easy-to-use tools for reporting unacceptable behaviour.
Exploitation: Some people use digital media to get teenagers involved in relationships they’re not ready for. They do this by finding someone who is vulnerable and then showering them with attention, sympathy, affection and kindness, all to persuade the victim that they love and understand them.