Assume your children are at risk of online exploitation rather than assuming they are not. This mindset ensures that parents, educators, and caregivers remain vigilant, informed, and ready to take the necessary steps to protect children in the digital landscape. By acknowledging the potential risks, adults can better educate themselves and the children in their care about online safety, privacy, and the importance of reporting any suspicious behavior. It fosters a culture of awareness and prevention, which is crucial in safeguarding our youth against the threats posed by the digital world.Welcome to a pivotal discussion presented by Jabiru Community Services, dedicated to empowering parents and educators in our technology-saturated era.  Our panel today is set to explore these complexities and arm you with the knowledge and strategies needed for safeguarding our young ones.In an age where young people are inundated with up to a thousand digital messages daily, discerning what is safe becomes an overwhelming task for them. This constant barrage can blur the lines between genuine communication and predatory behavior, making critical conversations about online safety more important than ever.It's essential to convey clear, supportive messaging that encourages young people to seek help from the right sources, especially when they find themselves in uncomfortable or unsafe situations online. The challenge lies in creating an open environment where they feel safe to discuss their concerns, including sensitive issues like sexual identity, without fear of judgment or repercussion.Parents, educators, and trusted adults must establish themselves as safe havens for dialogue, emphasizing that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. They should also educate youth on recognizing red flags, understanding the importance of privacy settings, and knowing how to report inappropriate content or interactions.Our panel, comprising distinguished experts, offers their deep insights today. Their dedication enhances our understanding and directs us toward proactive measures. To shed light on this topic, we've assembled a panel of experts, each with unique insights and solutions to address these challenges:Conrad Townson from IFYS & Project Paradigm: With a deep understanding of the landscape of online threats, Conrad will guide us on recognizing the early signs of grooming and sextortion, offering tangible tools to combat these risks.https://projectparadigm.com.au/Tricia Munn from Eyes Open Social Media Safety: An advocate for creating safe online spaces, Tricia will discuss strategies to secure personal online environments and address the psychological impact of bullying and grooming. Moreover, she'll introduce us to essential programs and online courses that aim to empower individuals in this digital era.https://eyesopensocialmedia.com.au/Panel Presented by:Support the showSubscribe and support the podcast at https://www.buzzsprout.com/367319/supporters/newLearn more at www.profselenabartlett.com