Whereas, Three-quarters of U.S. homes have an Internet connection, and two-thirds of active home-Internet users connect through broadband (high-speed Internet); more than two-thirds of U.S. children ages 2 to 17 access the Internet, and the average teen uses the computer 17.3 hours per month;
Whereas, An alarming 75 percent of children willingly share personal information about themselves over the Internet in exchange for goods and services; 77 percent of youths are contacted by online predators by age 14, yet only 25 percent of children will tell a parent about an online encounter with a predator;
Whereas, Internet and wireless options continue to grow at an exponential rate and include e-mail, instant messaging, chat rooms, Web pages, blogs, cell phones, text messaging, camera phones, message boards, Internet games, and voice chat abilities; and
Whereas, The dangers to children on the Internet and through wireless and other electronic communications may include access to inappropriate material, solicitation by sexual predators, sexual or racial harassment, cyberstalking, cyber bullying, and identity theft; therefore be it
Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent organizations will work with partners and allied agencies to heighten parents’ technological awareness and skills and promote responsible and ethical use of the Internet and wireless and other electronic resources; and
Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent organizations will work with partners, associated organizations, and government agencies to inform and educate students, parents, educators, and communities on the dangers associated with the Internet and wireless and other electronic communications; and be it further
Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent organizations will work to advocate for appropriate laws, policies, and regulations to ensure the safety of children and youth when using the Internet and wireless and other electronic communications.
Adopted: June 2007