Digital Citizenship: A Guide to Being Responsible Online

Our real lives are increasingly intertwined with the digital world. From social media interactions to online transactions, we leave behind digital footprints that shape our identities. When we take digital citizenship, we understand that we are taking on the responsibility to navigate digital environments in a safe and respectable way. We must be willing to take steps to safeguard ourselves and our communities online.

Characterized by their extensive use of online resources like blogs, social media, and entertainment, digital citizens rely on digital tools to keep them informed. In previous generations, we became digital citizens later on in our live. Now 95% of teens between the ages of 12 and 17 participating in social media and have a presence online.

Understanding Digital Citizenship

There are several points you can discuss with your child when it comes to being a good digital citizen.

Respect for Others

The golden rule applies to real life and to our online lives. Educate your child that they need to treat others online with respect and empathy, just like you would in the real world. If they feel that someone is trying to cyberbully them or they are being pressured into bullying someone else, tell them they can come to you for help. They should also know to walk away from online conflicts or ‘flame wars’.

Cybersecurity & Protecting Privacy

We’ve talked about it a few times, but when it comes to being safe online, protecting our privacy is paramount. Let your child know that they need to be incredibly mindful of what they share and who they share it with. Anything that shows their personal information (even their real name) should not be shared with anyone online.

Make sure your child understands the importance of strong passwords and keeping their device up to date.

Critical Thinking

An educated child is a safe child. When browsing social media and webpages, your child might encounter misinformation. They may be tempted to share it with others. They may bring it to you first to see your reaction at ‘shocking news’. These are the best times to walk your child through fact-checking websites and preventing the further spread of misinformation.

Best Practices for Responsible Digital Citizenship

Mindful Social Media Use

Think before you post. Consider the potential impact of your words and actions on others. Set up a system where, before they can post, they must have your approval. When and if you do say ‘no’ to something, make sure you explain why. If you think something they’ve shared is derogatory or is not respectful, have a conversation with them. Once your child demonstrates understanding of mindfulness, loosen the reigns and, over time, give them more control.

Digital Footprint Management

Be conscious of your digital footprint. Regularly go over privacy settings on social media platforms and adjust them to control who can see you or child’s information. Let them participate in the reviews and ask them about their opinions on their settings. If you find yourself disagreeing with the ‘proper’ level of protection, open the conversation further to explore why your child feels that way.

Be A Role model for Digital Citizenship

You are your child’s wellspring of knowledge and if you practice being a responsible digital citizen they will mirror that in their own behaviors. Their worlds are very ‘digital-first’ and it can be a strange and wonderful place. Your child relies on you for information on digital citizenship and literacy as it is not available in every school. Each of us place a crucial role in shaping the online world we’ve created and what space we’re going to leave to our children. Therefore, as responsible digital citizens, we influence those around us. Especially younger generations who are growing up in a digital-first world. By modeling good behavior and guiding others in digital literacy, we contribute to a safer and more respectful online community.