Digital Wellness

I am open to hearing and respectfully recognizing multiple viewpoints. I engage with others online with respect and empathy.

How do I engage with others so they feel valued, respected and welcome?

• I show empathy and respect for others' thoughts, feelings and perspectives.
• I accept and value viewpoints that are different than my own.
• I listen and support others.
• I work to understand why people feel and act differently.
• I communicate positively and can disagree with others respectfully.
• I treat others with respect when providing feedback.

Related Resources:

• Seven Key Steps to Raising Inclusive Kids
• Six Ways to Help Your Child Deal with Social Exclusion

I evaluate the accuracy, perspective and validity of digital media and social posts.

How do I find the information I am looking for and determine its accuracy?

• I explore new ideas to stimulate curiosity.
• I read to ask and answer questions.
• I recognize when the author is trying to persuade the reader.
• I seek a variety of sources and perspectives when researching.
• I draw conclusions after considering different viewpoints.
• I consider the source of information and consider potential biases.
• I question the accuracy and relevance of information.
• I give credit to the source of information I share.

I use technology and digital channels for civic engagement, to solve problems and to be a force for good in both physical and virtual communities.

How do I leverage technology to be a force for good in my community?

• I design solutions for personal, local and global challenges.
• I understand my role and responsibilities as a community member.
• I research the problems affecting my community and the world.
• I work to understand the people who are affected by the problem.
• I collaborate with people bringing different perspectives to generate a variety of solutions.
• I consider the pros and cons of potential actions and solutions.
• I communicate my ideas in a respectful way and value the ideas of others.

I make informed decisions about how to prioritize my time and activities, online and offline.

How do I create a healthy balance of technology use and offline activities?

• I manage time and organize myself.
• I am aware of my technology habits and how they affect my health and relationships.
• I limit distractions to improve my productivity and sleep.
• I set time and place boundaries for my technology use.
• I take short technology breaks while working to protect my health.
• I customize my devices to reduce distractions.
• I choose activities online that grow my creativity and connect me with others.

Related Resources:

• Family Media Agreement
• Screen Time: How Much is Too Much?

I am aware of my online actions, and know how to be safe and create safe spaces for others online.

How do I stay safe online and keep others safe?

• I take initiative, demonstrate leadership and make sound decisions.
• I tell a trusted adult when I find something online that worries me.
• I control the personal information I share with others online.
• I respect the privacy of others, only posting or sharing information with permission.
• I recognize my digital footprint and treat others respectfully.
• I interact with people I trust and block people that make me feel uncomfortable.
• I recognize scams and suspicious links and avoid clicking on them.
• I use strong and secure passwords and do not share them.

Related Resources:

• Digital Awareness for Parents
• Facebook, Instagram and Social Parent Concern
• Facebook: Tips and Tools for Online Safety
• Instagram: Parental Guide for Teens
• A Parent's Guide to Snapchat
• TikTok: Guardian's Guide