Dear Parents,
Subject: Monitoring and Guiding Students’ Activities on Social Media
I write to address certain concerns and inappropriate behaviour of students on social media. As educators and parents, we share a common goal: the safety and well-being of our children. In light of the increasing concerns regarding cybercrime and the potential risks associated with social media, we feel it is imperative to address this issue collectively.
At Maria’s Public School, we place the utmost importance on the safety and security of our students. We have observed a significant rise in the use of social media platforms amongst our young students such as Instagram, Facebook, and various chat groups. While these platforms can offer opportunities for communication and learning, they also pose serious risks, especially for those under the age of 18.
We strongly discourage students from opening accounts on these social media platforms until they reach the age of 18. Our reasons are rooted in concerns about their safety, privacy, and mental well-being. Exposure to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, online predators, and other cybercrimes are some of the dangers that young users are having to encounter all over the globe.
To ensure the safety of our students, we kindly request your cooperation in the following ways:
Monitor Your Child’s Online Activities: Regularly check your child’s online interactions and the platforms they are using. Open and honest communication about the potential risks can help them understand the importance of staying safe online.
Set Clear Boundaries and Rules: Establish guidelines for internet usage at home. Limit the amount of time spent online and ensure that devices are used in common areas where supervision is easier.
Educate About Privacy: Teach your children the importance of protecting their personal information and the risks of sharing details with strangers online.
Encourage Offline Activities: Promote hobbies, sports, and other offline activities that can engage your children in productive and healthy ways.
Be a Role Model: Demonstrate responsible online behavior and set an example for your children to follow.
Our collective effort in addressing this issue can significantly contribute to creating a safer online environment for our children.
Warm regards,
Mausumi Mahanta
Principal
Maria’s Public School