Principal warns against Facebook

Woy Woy South Public School principal Mr Terry Greedy has told parents he was alarmed by the use of social networking websites by students at the school.

He said he was alarmed at the large numbers of students who were regular Facebook users, some as young as Year 1.

In a recent newsletter, he issued a warning about the dangers of children accessing the internet unsupervised after recent media reports of incidents involving social networking websites.

He advised parents to be aware of age restrictions on some sites, either 13 years or 16 years, and said that some students falsified their age to be able to access content.

"By doing this, students have technically broken the law," Mr Greedy said.

"No child of primary age should have access to age restricted sites."

Mr Greedy said that, while not wanting to interfere in decisions being made by families, he was concerned that children may be putting themselves at risk by not understanding the dangers associated with the improper use of social networking sites.

Mr Greedy said his concern was such that he had decided to speak to all Stage 2 and 3 students about the issue.

He advised parents to closely monitor their child's contacts and subject matter on websites to ensure the safety and confidentiality of any personal information that is provided.

Newsletter, 25 May 2010 Terry Greedy, Woy Woy South Public School