Get Online Week 2018: cyber-bullying, some resources for awareness

The lives of young people in 2018 include more ‘screen’ time than ever before. But, as in ‘real’ life, online life includes the good and the bad, with many of the same risks. These risks are small, but young people need to  be armed with the same knowledge in navigating the online world as the offline world, including strategies to deal with bullying migrating from the offline to the online worlds. For Get Online week, 2018, it’s timely to remember how libraries can help.

Local libraries keep cyber safety for all ages at the forefront of their minds, with 75% of libraries in Australia being accredited as eSmart libraries. eSmart libraries are safe online spaces, where the community can feel confident in accessing online services. Ask your local library about their eSmart status today.

The Queensland Department of Education links to some useful resources around cyber safety, including the Bullying, no way! initiative, with resources for parents, educators, children and teens. There are some games for the 5-7 age group, Hector’s World and Zippep’s Astro Circus, featuring engaging animated characters guiding kids through various important online safety strategies.

State Library of Queensland offers a great range of resources from our collections for those who would like to learn more on the background to cyber-bullying, screen dependence and strategies to deal with these issues. Resources include e-books readable right on your tablet or phone and are free to borrow with a State Library membership.