Raising our kids in today’s digital landscape can be quite challenging. While technology has simplified our lives in many ways, it also makes raising kids more complicated. It’s important to teach our kids about the responsible use of digital space and important topics such as cyberbullying, digital footprints, inappropriate content, and sexting.
Do you know what is digital footprint?
Digital footprint refers to the trail of data and information that is left behind when kids use digital devices or online platforms. This trail includes posts, searches, and website visits, and every interaction leaves a trace of information.
Raising Children in the Digital Age
“Raising Children in the Digital Age” is an IMDA initiative that aims to help parents navigate the online world with their children, aged 0-17 and to foster healthy technology habits and safeguard against potential risks posed by social media and gaming platforms.
Sharing some examples of digital footprints
- Search history: This includes your queries on search engines.
- Browsing history: The websites or pages you view, even in “Incognito” mode.
- Social media activities: This encompasses posts, comments, likes, shares, and interactions.
- Emails, text messages, photos, and videos: This includes even those that have been deleted.
- Device and app usage: This involves the devices you use and the apps you install.
Digital Landscape
It’s important to teach our kids about the responsible use of digital space and online issues such as cyberbullying, digital footprints, inappropriate content etc.
Just follow a simple step before posting anything and this applies to both children and adults.
How you can support your child
1. Practice T.H.I.N.K. This applies to both children and adults.
- True
- Helpful
- Inspiring
- Necessary
- Kind
If the answer is NO to any of these, then refrain from posting.
2. Avoid sharing personal information such as NRIC or any information they may regret later. (If accidentally posted, please assist them in removing it.)
3. Review their privacy settings and stay informed about their online activities, including the websites, games, and apps they use.
Remember: Everything shared online can impact our kids reputation just as it does in the real world.
To know more, please visit the Digital for Life portal (https://go.gov.sg/pooja2024)