7 ways to keep your children safe online in 2024

CSO research shows that 88% of families in Ireland now have fixed broadband, with 37% accessing the internet via mobile.

Faster, more widespread internet access, an increase in cyberattacks, and emerging tech like artificial intelligence (AI), and tools like ChatGPT mean it is more important than ever that our children stay safe online. 

1. Recognise new risks: The rapid growth of AI brings potential risks and challenges. Be wary of things like deepfakes: realistic, AI-generated fake videos and images that can be used to humiliate, abuse, or bully a victim.
2. Stay socially savvy: Get acquainted with social platforms like Snapchat, Twitch, and TikTok and select suitable privacy settings. Read up on social and cyberbullying laws like Coco’s Law, which criminalises the non-consensual distribution of intimate images.
3. Be safe and secure: With a 22% increase in the frequency of cyberattacks in Ireland in 2023, it’s even more important to set up the right internet security. Install the latest anti-virus software on your children’s device, keep it up to date, use two-factor authentication (2FA), and tell them not to open unknown attachments or links. 
4. Set clear rules: Setting clear do’s and don’ts can help your kids navigate the minefield of apps, social platforms and fake news. Ask them not to share personal information or meet up with strangers, encourage them to question headlines and to open up about abusive messages. 
5. Take control: Parental controls block apps and websites and filter out inappropriate content. They also restrict when and how long your children can go online and allow you to monitor their usage. Free options include Qustodio and Google’s Family Link. 
6. Be open and supportive: Let them know you’re on hand for advice should they need it. Creating a relaxed, positive environment helps build trust and means you won’t be left in the dark should any issues arise. 
7. Get resourceful: There are plenty of online resources to help keep your children safe from cyberbullying, online predators, and dangerous websites. Visit Webwise.ie, Internet Matters.org, Cyber Safe Kids.ie and Common Sense Media - who have put together guides for parents on trending apps and their safety. 

For more information, visit Switcher.ie's free resource: How to keep your children safe online in Ireland.

Well done done to our Peace Ambassadors who assisted at the spectacular St Brigid Cross event at the Curragh Racecourse on Thursday last, particularly to Eleanor Steed who spoke so well on the Six One News that evening. Thank you to our Ember Team who facilitated many of our students to make their own St Brigid Cross. Wishing everyone a lovely Bank Holiday celebrating this amazing woman.

A reminder to keep an eye on the school app for information relating to Saturday Study.

Study does not run on holiday weekends (bank holidays, mid term, Easter etc) and is dependent on the availability of Garda vetted parent volunteers to assist with supervision. I am extremely grateful to the Parents' Association for their generosity in this regard.

The next Saturday study sessions will be on February 24th, March 2nd and March 9th.

Many thanks to all who registered interest in attending and I hope it will continue to be beneficial.

J Leonard

Thank you to Brian Byrne for his lovely article in The Kildare Nationalist this week about our hugely successful The Secret Garden Pop Up Restaurant. Make sure to get your copy before it sells out!

Today saw the launch of a new lunchtime club in CPC called "Craft & Fashion". This club will happen each Wednesday in the school hall and all 1st years are invited to join in. 

The Drama Club meets every Wednesday between 1:20pm and 1:50pm.