The past fifteen years have witnessed astronomical advancements in digital technology. Modern-day society has greatly benefited from increased opportunities for learning, community-building, and relational connections despite geographical distance.
But the benefits of engaging with digital technology and social media have come with challenges, especially for youth. Social psychologists Jean Twenge, Jonathan Haidt, and others show data proving the harm of excessive social media use to young people. The ubiquitous nature of digital technology makes our interaction with it unavoidable.
According to the Office of the Surgeon General, about 95% of teenagers and 40% of children between the ages of 8 and 12 use some form of social media. We can take many approaches to conversations with our children about their safety in online spaces. Some of these issues are uncomfortable, so frankly we choose not to talk about them, especially when it comes to the dangers of sexual exploitation online.
Predators go where the kids are. In the past, child sex offenders would lurk in playgrounds, parks, public spaces, including places of worship. Now that the digital environment is a playground for kids, these criminals are lurking online. One thing we rarely have is the ability to see beyond screens to where the new playgrounds are.
BGYouth is privileged to host a Department of Homeland Security special agent who will give presentations about online safety. These in-person, interactive presentations are designed to inform children, teens, parents, and trusted adults about online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (CSEA) threats and advise how to use preventative strategies from a criminal investigator’s perspective.
Bethel Grove Bible Church is actively involved in child safety efforts. You may already be aware of our annual in-house safety training for teen helpers, Kingdom Kids & BGYouth volunteers, and parents. (Remember SPQRS? If not, check out the monitors in the lobby.) This presentation from the Department of Homeland Security is one more tool in our kit to help us protect our children.
Please spread the word among your colleagues, co-workers, and neighbors. To see more details and to RSVP, please scan the QR code.