John Parsons Visit – Key Messages for Whaanau
Yesterday, we were fortunate to host John Parsons, a leading expert on cyber safety and digital wellbeing. John shared valuable insights on how we can protect our tamariki in an increasingly digital world, particularly with the rapid growth of technology and artificial intelligence (AI).
A key takeaway from his talk was the importance of not allowing children to access social media or online games before the recommended age. Young children simply aren’t emotionally equipped to manage the content or interactions that come with these platforms.
John reinforced the value of strong family routines – eating meals together, having open conversations, and sharing family values daily – as powerful protective tools. If you are not sure about family values, feel free to adopt or adapt our school values, which are part of our Character Wheel.
He also reminded us that bedrooms should be device-free zones, especially at night. Bright screens, noise, and notifications disrupt sleep and impact children’s health and learning.
Finally, John urged us as parents and caregivers to stay actively involved. If your child is gaming, learn about the game, play it with them, and check whether it includes chat functions or access to online forums. These can be high-risk areas where inappropriate or harmful interactions occur.
Let’s continue to support our children by being informed, present, and connected in both the real and digital spaces they navigate.
Below is a link to some of John’s videos outlining some key things to think about if you were unable to attend his session last night.
Books by John Parsons: www.citizen21.co.nz/books
Video’s/Interviews by John Parsons
BEDROOM, BATHROOM, PAJAMASS
FAMILES THAT EAT TOGETHER HEAL TOGETHER
CHILDREN & ONLINE GAMES - A NOSY PARENT IS A LOVING PARENT
TRUSTING GUT FEELING
SUPPORTING YOUNG PEOPLE WHO USE MOBILE PHONES
LEAVING PRIMARY SCHOOL
HOW TO DEAL WITH ANTI SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
SEXTORTION
TEENAGERS AND FUTURE PROOFING FOR EMPLOYMENT
Live Streaming: Understand the risks for children.
CIRCLE OF LIGHTHOUSES
Filming, shaming people and distributing harm online.
TVNZ: Metta/Facebook deploy safety messages.