(Photo by Edenpictures) The purpose of the first World Information Society Day in 2005 was to raise awareness about what the Internet and other communication technologies could offer to societies and economies, and to help bridge the digital divide. A year later, the day was combined with World Telecommunication Day (which had been celebrated on May 17th since 1969) to mark both the founding of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) and the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention in 1865 (back in the good old days of the Morse Code). Although this blend creates the tongue-twisting name World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, the blend makes perfect sense and also eliminates potential confusion between Information Society Day with the legendary 80s band. Access to information is increasing globally, thanks in part to such projects as "One Laptop Per Child" and the Technology Access Foundation. As more young people venture onto the Internet, though, new challenges arise. Perhaps that’s why this year’s theme for World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is "Protecting Children in Cyberspace." A couple of decades ago, parents were biting their nails over the mature themes and manipulative advertising their children were being exposed to on television. Today, those worries are multiplied to the Nth degree with the unfiltered realm that must seem to many like the new Wild West. Although the statistics about young peoples' experience online can be alarming, the Internet should not strike fear into one's heart. The key is to be aware of the dangers for kids, and to begin the idea of "communications" with old-fashioned talking. Many kids give out personal information online without understanding the risks. Online predators certainly exist, but cyberbullying is becoming a more common concern, with cases reaching the news cycle by the day. Just as we enjoy having unlimited access to information via the Internet 24 hours a day, this door opens both ways, so kids can no longer leave conflicts behind on school grounds. The silver lining? There are a lot of resources out there for families. Start with the Yahoo! Directory to find organizations, information, and tips for helping your kids navigate cyberspace. Suggested Sites... Yahoo! Safely - tons of information for parents and kids for staying safe online. Child Online Protection - informative brochure from ITU. SafeKids.com - offers great resources, plus a blog with current topics. Internet Safety Technical Task Force - creating a safer environment on the internet for youth. World Information Society Day - links and resources from the United Nations.

Directory categories: Child Internet Safety, Internet Safety Organizations, Internet Blocking and Filtering Software, Children's Internet Privacy, Digital Divide

Archived under: Children, Computers, Holidays, Internet, Kids, Parenting, Safety, Security, Technology, Teens

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