Don’t take candy from strangers, don’t talk to strangers, don’t go anywhere with a person you don’t know. These warnings and many more must be taught to children, as they have been taught to them for generations, but today’s children must be taught more than these in-person social cautions. The internet, social networking, texting, and instant messaging mean that children also must be taught safe technological practices.

This month, Facebook and the national PTA have announced a partnership in order to teach children, parents, and teachers about responsible, safe internet use. The goal is to reach every student in the nation as part of the program. "Nothing is more important to us than the well-being of the people, especially the many teenagers, who use Facebook," said Sheryl Sandberg, Facebook's chief operating officer.

"Our vision is that each child, parent and teacher will have the knowledge and tools they need to harness the power of the internet effectively and safely," said Charles J. Saylors, that National PTA president. Facebook has committed $1 million in resources to the educational project, and the national PTA plans to work with 24,000 local PTAs across the United States.

In the coming months, Facebook and the PTA will work with child safety and technology experts to gather resources for the project. They will also find out from children, teachers, and parents what resources are needed. Watch for information about this partnership from your local PTA.

What advice do you give your students and children about technology usage?
What precautions do you use?
Comment below.

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