The Darien Times

Learn what your kids already know about Facebook, social media

Written by The Darien Times
Friday, January 13, 2012 07:00 AM

Social media sites are rapidly increasing — Facebook, AIM, Google+, Skype, Twitter, etc. — so how are parents supposed to keep up?

To address this, the YWCA Parent Awareness and the Middlesex Middle School Parent Association are joining forces to present, "Facebook and Social Media: What your Kids Already Know." The event is Wednesday, Jan. 18, beginning with coffee at 9:15 a.m. and the presentation at 9:30, in the Middlesex Middle School auditorium.

The event features Richard J. Colangelo Jr., senior assistant state's attorney; Diane McKeever, Facebook and technology specialist; and Christina Hefele, technology/data coordinator for Darien Schools. The talk will be led by Dr. Debi Boccanfuso, the Middlesex principal.

This hands-on meeting will provide and overview of social media websites used by pre-teens and teens. How do these sites contribute to cyber-bulling and negative digital reputations? Experts will provide an overview of key social media sites and provide tips on how to keep your kids safe and out of trouble.

The hands-on presentation will cover the privacy and security settings on Facebook, outline software available for parental oversight, as well as enlighten parents on Internet safety curriculum in the Darien Schools.

The program is free of charge, and parents with children in upper elementary school and above are encouraged to attend.

Parent Awareness is a YWCA program that promotes the healthy, positive development of Darien youth and families. Parent awareness is also a member of Thriving Youth: Connected Community: TYCC is a catalyst for developmental asset building through meaningful relationship experiences, skills and opportunities that benefit all our children.

More info: 203-655-2535, YWCADarienNorwalk.org

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