(Courtesy of Project S.A.R.A.H.) Project S.A.R.A.H. created a three-part Internet Safety Program for fifth- through eighth-grade students highlighting internet safety, online grooming and cyber bullying. The internet safety program uses graphics, videos and visuals to engage the students. In the course of working with middle school students, it became apparent that one of the biggest challenges facing parents is that their children know more about the internet than they do. Constantly seeking to promote child safety and facilitate healthy parental involvement in their children’s time online, Project S.A.R.A.H. created an accompanying internet safety program that teaches parents how to communicate internet safety guidelines so they can better safeguard their children from the dangers lurking online.
The program is now in full swing and has been presented to several schools in our community. Earlier this month, six highly trained Project S.A.R.A.H. clinicians presented the Internet Safety Program to 250 children in middle school at the Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy. Last week those students’ parents participated in the new parent presentation offered by Project S.A.R.A.H. director Elke Stein, LCSW, and clinician and outreach coordinator Hila Revah, LCSW. The program opened with a discussion about internet safety and engaged parents in conversations about dangerous situations children encounter online as well as personal experiences regarding cyber bullying, including how to identify and respond. Parents reported finding the presentation tremendously impactful. They appreciated the opportunity to learn more about the risks their children face when using certain apps and playing interactive games. They asked insightful questions and were grateful for the meaningful discussion that ensued.
Project S.A.R.A.H. (Stop Abusive Relationships At Home) is a state-wide program that works to overcome cultural, legal and religious barriers confronting victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. For more information about how to bring the internet safety program to your school or community, contact 973-777-7638 x154 or email [email protected].
