Protecting Our Kids Online: Why Parents Shouldn’t Miss This Event

No matter what age your child is, if they’re online – they’re at risk.

Predators don’t just lurk in dark corners of the internet. They’re in your child’s favourite games, chat apps, and social platforms. Add to that the easy access to gambling, pornography, and violent content – it’s all just one click away.

It’s tempting for parents to think, “not my child.” But the reality is stark: a 2023 survey revealed 89% of Upper Clutha teens had already been exposed to harmful online content.

That’s why a special community event is happening this week in Wānaka – to help parents better understand the risks and learn what they can do to keep their children safe online.

Event Details:

🗓️ Thursday 11 September
🕡 6:30 PM
📍 Lake Wānaka Centre

Nicola Jacobsen, who is passionate about raising awareness around online safety, says the event is a must for every parent:

“It doesn’t matter if your child is 6 or 16 – if they’re online, they’re vulnerable. This session is about giving parents the tools and confidence to have the right conversations and set up the right protections.”

The evening will cover practical steps for parents, signs to watch out for, and advice on how to navigate tricky topics like pornography, gambling, and online grooming. It’s designed to be useful no matter your tech skills, and most importantly – it’s about protecting our tamariki here in the Upper Clutha.

Why You Should Go

• Learn what the real risks are – from predators to harmful content.

• Get practical advice you can use straight away.

• Hear local insights relevant to our community.

• Connect with other parents who share the same concerns.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parents, this is one evening you don’t want to miss.
Protecting our kids online starts with being informed – and it starts with us.