Our Digital Citizenship Agreement

Digital technology plays a critical role in our daily lives. Many of us are constantly attached to our devices– whether that’s working on a computer, watching a new show through a streaming platform, or simply having our smartphones within reach at all times. But talking about the impact that these devices and platforms have on our lives can be incredibly difficult– especially when it comes to conversations with our children. 

In Youth Speak Out International’s Today’s Digital Citizens program, students are given a digital citizenship agreement within the first few sessions that they take home and share with their families. This agreement lays out rules that are critical to being a good digital citizen. While the agreement is designed with the students in mind, parents or guardians must sign on to help their children achieve these goals. The rules for the family agreement are: 

1. I will remember that not all people have access to or utilize technology in the same way. I will not treat others differently if they do not have the same technology. 
2. I will tell my parents or another responsible adult right away if I come across any information online that makes me feel uncomfortable. I understand that to have technology rights that I (must) be responsible in what I do online. 
3. I will tell my parents if I experience any pain or discomfort when using technology. I will remember that I need to balance technology use with other activities. 
4. I will not respond to any messages that are mean or in any way make me feel uncomfortable. It is not my fault if I get a message that is not appropriate. If I do, I will tell my parents or a responsible adult right away so that they can contact the proper groups. 
5. I will talk with my parents so that we can set up rules for buying things online. We will decide upon if, and when online purchases can be made and secure sites for me to use.
6. I will treat others the way that I wish to be treated when using technology. I will keep in mind that the way I use technology affects others. 
7. I will check with my parents before downloading or installing software or doing anything that could possibly hurt our computer, tablet and phone or jeopardize my family’s privacy. 
8. I will be a good online citizen and not do anything that hurts other people or is against the law.
9. I will help my parents understand how to have fun and learn things online and teach them things about computers, the internet, and other screen technologies. 

The digital citizenship agreement helps families engage in difficult conversations. It prepares students and parents for the possibility of cyberbullying, it sets rules for how technology can be used, and it embraces the positives of technology and the ways that the digital world can bring parents and their children together. 

The digital citizenship agreement starts a conversation that we hope students and their families will continue to build on as they learn more about navigating the digital world and becoming better digital citizens.