A new online program is about to be implemented in order to advise parents how to keep their tweens away from pornographic websites. Specifically, Culture Reframed decided to set up a free online course for parents, which aims to help them combat any anxiety and panic while presenting ways in which they can help their children resist to hyper sexualized culture and the impacts of pornography.
According to a valid research which conducted from Middlesex University, about 53% of 11- to 16-year-olds in the UK have seen explicit material online, nearly all of whom (94%) had seen it by 14. Meanwhile, the majority of tweens (59% of nine to ten-year-olds which rises to 90% of 11-year-olds) own smartphones, which means that they have easy access to such content through social media. Therefore, the results of the study showed that about 53% of 11 to 16-year-olds in the UK have seen explicit material online, nearly all of whom (94%) had seen it by the age of 14.
After a survey that be held by the NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) and the children’s commissioner for England, was found that: ‘’Children often feel ashamed, guilty or confused about what they’ve seen online and 80% of young people felt that age verification was needed for sites to protect young people from accessing adult content.’’ Thus, UK Safer Internet Centre, Childnet, and Internetmatters.org did not remain uninvolved and organized workshops in schools where there are discussions about online safety and online porn.
However, there are schools where there is absolutely no mention of such issues and teachers seem to be indifferent to the protection of their pupils, leaving kids to deal with porn culture on their own. During the course, parents adopt clear guidance and advice on helping their children understand the bad consequences of sexist and degrading images. In addition to this, Andrea Rippon, a Certified Parent Educator (www.parentingclass.co.uk), specializing in communication and relationship skills offered this advice to parents of tweens concerned about porn: Have this conversation with your child – a stitch in time can save nine. Here are some pointers to help you on your way:
- Your role is to guide and influence, which means you need to be calm and non-judgemental. The better the relationship you have with your child, the more likely they are to listen and be influenced by you.
- Read all the information from articles in papers, magazines and on the internet.
- Ask permission – For example: Can we make some time to talk about porn?
- The discussion must be done in the appropriate time – undisturbed, one to one, in the car or on a walk.
- Ask questions – Don’t make an interrogation, keep it calm and conversational. You can also ask them if they have any questions.
- Influence – Take advantage of your knowledge and experiences.
- Guidance – Set some rules and show how to use the Internet safely.
- Thank your child – Tell them that you will be available at any time if they want to. Let them know that they must not be hesitant.
