Dear Vermonters,
In the recent January 31 Senate hearing on Child Safety and Technology, a spotlight was cast on the risks that online platforms pose to our children and youth. As an organization dedicated to promoting healthy relationships within families and communities to prevent child abuse, we recognize the importance of addressing these concerns head-on with prevention.
This pivotal hearing, which assembled key tech titans like Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Facebook, provided a platform to confront pressing concerns regarding the safety of youth on the internet. With child safety in digital spaces placed under the microscope, it became increasingly apparent that urgent action is needed.
The hearing served as a forum for robust discussions on a wide array of topics, ranging from the proliferation of harmful content to issues of privacy, data protection, and the imperative for increased transparency and accountability within the tech industry. While Mark Zuckerberg's public apology to victims and parents present gathered attention, it was met with skepticism by many who felt it lacked sincerity and genuine remorse.
Central to the discourse was the acknowledgment of the responsibility borne by tech companies in safeguarding children online. With digital platforms serving as both a source of endless opportunities and potential risks, it is vital that we equip parents with the knowledge and tools needed to protect children and youth as they navigate this complex digital landscape safely and responsibly.
At PCAVT, because we understand the profound impact that technology has on children's well-being and safety, we are committed to addressing these challenges through our innovative programs that are free to Vermonters. Our ‘TECHNICOOL: Keeping Kids Safe on the Internet’ workshop is tailored for adults, including caregivers, teachers, and professionals from various fields. This program prepares participants with the knowledge and tools to navigate digital risks such as internet pornography, online grooming, and sexting. By empowering adults with effective strategies for keeping children safe online and responding to concerning digital behaviors, we create a safer digital environment for our children.
In addition, our ‘Project SELFIE (Safe Expression Online for Internet Empowerment)’ school-based program focuses includes student lessons on healthy digital interactions and empowers middle and high school students to make safe and informed decisions online. Through developmentally appropriate and trauma-informed presentations, youth learn about consent, cooperation, and compliance in digital interactions, as well as coping with peer pressure and responding to requests for sexting. This program also includes an adult training component to prepare parents, caregivers, and adults who work with children to protect youth from online risks.
As we reflect on the insights gathered from the Senate hearing, it becomes evident that programs like ‘TECHNICOOL’ and ‘Project SELFIE’ are essential components of a comprehensive approach to addressing child safety online. By providing both adults and youth with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate digital spaces safely, we can mitigate the risks associated with online platforms and create a healthier online environment for our children.
We invite you to join us in supporting these vital programs. Together, we can empower our communities to protect our children and ensure their safety and well-being in both the physical and digital realms.
Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to our shared mission.
If you are interested in accessing these programs, email Marcie mhambrick@pcavt.org or visit our website www.pcavt.org.