The Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney is inviting the nation’s parents and carers to benefit from an opportunity aimed at protecting young people online. In response to increasing awareness and community fears surrounding cyber safety, this year, the Council of Catholic Schools Parents NSW/ACT (CCSP) will be presenting webinars to help families navigate the perils presented when young people are learning to independently use the internet.
The first free webinar taking place in March is specially tailored for parents and carers of young people aged 10 to 18 and will cover:
- what do to about accidental exposure to content about suicide
- self-harm or eating disorders
- using games, apps and social media to support mental wellbeing
- the pros and cons of digital mental health platforms
- strategies for young people to support friends online.
CCSP is collaborating with the eSafety Commissioner to present eSafety’s parent guide to digital technologies and mental health. The eSafety Commisioner’s expert education and training team will deliver the highly informative webinar.
Catholic Archbishop of Sydney, Most Rev Anthony Fisher OP said he was pleased the CCSP was partnering with the eSafety Commissioner to address one of the most important issues impacting young people.
“All parents and carers are struggling with the challenges presented by the increasing use of technology and devices at home and at school. That’s why it’s crucial we all work together to find solutions to these problems,” Archbishop Fisher said.
“Everyone wants children to be safe when they are online. I hope this new resource will be of great benefit to the entire community.”
CCSP Chair Wayne Davie, commented “We are delighted to once again partner with the eSafety commissioner, the demand from parents to stay up-to-date with the latest information affecting their children in cyber space has increased especially during COVID lockdowns resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“Parents are the first educators of their children; these webinars are an example of how CCSP are supporting parents and carers in their role as educators of their children.” Mr. Davie said.
“By hosting webinars online, parents and carers across rural and regional and NSW and Australia have the opportunity to participate, just like the internet, the problems faced by young people don’t have borders.”
Parents and carers can find details on upcoming events on the Council of Catholic School Parents Upcoming webinars. Additional online events that help parents and carers support young people will be coordinated throughout the year. Topics will include challenges faced everyday such as online security, wellbeing, and other issues that are important to families.