Worried about your kids’ texts? There’s an app for that!
Parents worried about their children sending and sharing inappropriate texts and images may have a helpful answer in the form of a new app.
The Oyoty app, developers claim, detects when pictures show too much exposed flesh, when texts use abusive or bullying language, and when sensitive private information like phone numbers is used. When such material is identified, a ‘chat bot’ addresses the user, suggesting that they reconsider sending or sharing it.
Originally launched in the UK last year, the app, which is aimed at children who are starting to use social media, can also be set to send alerts to parents, and sends parents a weekly ‘report’ telling them how their children have progressed in responsible social media use.
Its main purpose, however, is to help children train themselves to use social media responsibly by asking them to think again before engaging in risky behaviour.
Time for tea
With afternoon tea undergone a resurgence in popularity of late, younger members of the family can join in as a special treat this month at Dublin’s Shelbourne Hotel.
The Children’s Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea, which is on offer until 22 November to coincide with the Paddington 2 film in Dublin cinemas, costs €28 per child, and includes Yummy Orange Marmalade and Chocolate Cup, an Orange Marmalade Sponge Sandwich, a Paddington Chocolate Suit Case, Paddington Raspberry Red Macaroon and a Paddington Bear Brownie.
As drinks, children can have a ‘Lost and Found Strawberry Shake’, and the dainty finger sandwich selection includes ham, cheese and Nutella. Advance booking essential.
Misneach part of the Christmas countdown
‘Misneach’, a non-denominational event run by the suicide crisis and support centre Pieta House, is set to take place around the country on November 26.
Intended to nourish hope, lift spirits, and help welcome the Christmas season with a sense of optimism and promise by creating a space to honour and celebrate lost loved ones, and to reconnect with them.
The event will be held in Galway’s Augustinian Church, Limerick’s Mungret Church, St John’s Rest and Care Centre in Knock, Pieta House Cork, Edenderry Parish Centre and Unitarian Church, Dublin. Pre-booking is needed – through Eventbrite – for the Dublin event only.
“Misneach is also for those who have come through our services, or for anyone who has overcome or is going through their own struggles, as a celebration of their strength and courage, said Pieta House CEO CEO Brian Higgins.
