__________________________________________Ask the DA
 

Dear Readers,

Today’s children live in an Internet world.  As parents, we may not always understand the latest technology or trends.  But that doesn’t mean that we aren’t able to keep our kids safe.  This month – April – is Internet Safety Month at the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office.  In the coming weeks, in partnership with the New York City Department of Education and Community Education Council District 15, we will launch an innovative, first-of-its-kind outreach program in Brooklyn’s public and private schools.  Trained staff from my office will conduct lessons which encourage interactive learning through role-playing and group discussions, and give children the information they need to make safe online choices.  Additionally, I will be inviting parents to participate in a seminar geared towards increasing their own Internet Safety awareness.

Parents have a very important role in helping to ensure their children’s safety on the Internet.  I would like to share with you some simple things you can do to keep your children safe.

1.                  Keep the computer in a common family room, not in your child’s bedroom.

2.                  Spend time with your child online.  Learn about their favorite online destinations.

3.                  Make sure your child understands not to give out personal information on Web sites, chat rooms or social networking sites.

4.                  Talk to your children about what to do if they see something that makes them feel scared, uncomfortable or confused.  Show them how to turn off the monitor.  Emphasize that it is not their fault if they see something upsetting, and remind them to tell a trusted adult about what they have seen.

5.                  If someone is engaging in illegal activity online, such as threatening your child’s safety or exposing him/her to unnecessary danger, do not erase the offensive material - Report it to the police as soon as possible.

I invite you all to visit our Web site (www.brooklynda.org) for additional information on this important Internet Safety awareness initiative.