Like it or not, our kids are the Digital Generation coming of age ensconced in two realities -- the real world and the virtual world
The Digital Generation is very tech savvy, but not very media literate. . . When it comes to critical thinking about what they create, post, and share online, kids and teens don't think twice about unintended consequences of their cyber trail -- risque screen names, explicit photos, inappropriate comments or digital dirt
Media are extraordinary learning tools when used wisely. . . Kids need to make smart choices when they send e-mail, text and tweet, upload videos and photos, post messages on social network walls, comment on blogs, share what they're doing and feeling in online communities, or exchange virtual gifts or evites
learn, socialize and play safely on the cyber playground every time they go online and interact with friends.
protect their digital footprints they leave behind with every mouse-click that creates an online identity.
think critically about their virtual reputation before it has real life consequences when applying to college or a job.
know what to do about potential cyber harm from cyberbullying, sexting, cyber dating abuse, strangers and predators, identity thieves, unsolicited obscene material, and other net effects.
self-regulate their Internet use to avoid overuse that can lead to dependent and addictive behavior.