“A year ago YALSA launched the 30 days of positive uses of social networking project. Every day throughout October three YALSA bloggers posted ideas and information about using social networking in the school and public library. The postings were in response to the U.S. Congress Deleting Online Predators Act and the realization that librarians working with teens needed support and information on using social networking with teens.
Now, one year later, the same YALSA bloggers are each going to write an update post, during the month of October, about the world of social networking, teens, etc.”
At the beginning of this month, Linda Braun posted an up to date summary of where social networking is at on the radar of Congress and where it could be with libraries. A reader left a comment to the post that said in part, “I am still on the hunt for the example that directly engages kids in being media-savvy.”
Here is a list of sites that might help and that engage youth in fun and creative ways to be safe online. Videos of real teens, animated videos, audio clips, comics, and interactive spaces that work to get the message across of being safe online can be found here. This list is not meant to be comprehensive. Other examples are welcome, especially to the YALSA del.icio.us page and from your library!
Bebo
-Links to other resources and teen friendly info. about safety
Building a Safer Internet
-Interesting concept for a ratings board. Something to keep your eye on-the blog has just started. Do we want our sites to be rated? By whom?
Common Sense Media
-What to watch for (and watch out for). Aimed toward parents but uses a layout and interactive games friendly for youth.
NetSmartz
-Uses videos and comics with characters that have 3D personalities
Teen Angels
-Teens trained by law enforcement to spread the word through projects and presentations
-Especially the Digital Studio section, teens learn how to have safe online relationships
GetNetWise
-While this is aimed at families and younger kids, I included it for the array of definitions about various aspects of online safety
Don’t Believe the Type
-Urges teens to think before they post and talks about safety information related to digital cameras, web cams, and microphones
Cyber-Safe Kids, Cyber-Savvy Teens>
-A booklet by Nancy Willard to teens that provides helpful tips for readers and their peers
i-Safe, X-Block
-For and by teens. Contests, chatrooms, and peer mentoring regarding internet safety
WebWiseKids
-Computer games and scenarios for teens
Posted by Kelly Czarnecki
