Election 2012

The battle between President Barack Obama and Governor Mitt Romney has been one for the record books and the decision of the nation will be determine who will be our next president on November 6, 2012. But do you kids understand what is going on?

As someone in my 20’s, sometimes I do not follow everything that is going on in politics, so I know that most kids don’t either.  Scholastic has a page devoted to the 2012 Election so that kids can follow the campaign trail of both the republican and democratic candidates. The site also contains games and election maps so kids can participate and be engaged in past and potential presidents.

Cyberbullying

We all have heard way too many stories about bullying. Many families begin to consider online education because they are looking for a safe place for their children to escape the effects of bullying.  The many options available through K¹² can be that safe environment for many kids. Bullying has grown into much larger issue than many of us remember. Technology has helped create many new and powerful tools for bullies to use and has created a new form of bullying called “cyber bullying”.

"Cyber bullying" is when a child, preteen or teen is tormented, threatened, harassed, humiliated, embarrassed or otherwise targeted by another child, preteen or teen using the Internet, interactive and digital technologies or mobile phones. Sometimes, the child may even change roles, going from victim to bully and back again.

Cyber bullying can be done using direct attacks, where messages are sent directly to the victim, or by proxy, when others join in on the act, with or without the accomplice's knowledge. Because cyber bullying by proxy often gets adults involved in the harassment, it can be much more damaging. 

Deciding to enroll your children in an online school has it's own set of challenges. And because online education is still what some may consider "different", we realize that parents need robust resources and support to help - whether it's to hear about fresh ideas, gain a more indepth perspective about online education or just simply talk to someone who "gets it" and can offer advice. 

We also know that no one family is alike, which is why we offer many different types of programs and resources to help families - whether they are already living and learning the online education lifestyle or are just starting to look into the possiblities that online learning can offer.  

"Nothing you do for children is ever wasted." - Garrison Keillor 

Do you agree? 

Tips to Teach Children How to Use the Internet Safely

There is no denying that the internet provides wonderful learning opportunities, for adults and kids alike. It has revolutionized how we learn, how we connect with one another, and how we entertain ourselves. But with the potential for learning, there is also potential danger, particularly for children and teens. In order to protect children online, it’s important for parents to be aware of children’s online activities and to teach children how to use the internet safely.  These tips can help.