The Internet has become virtually indispensable in today’s Information Age. That being said, there are questionable and inappropriate sites for kids on the Net. Here are some tips on how to keep kids safe online.
Keep Personal Information Offline
Tell the child that personal information must never be given on the Web, especially strangers. Personal info will include your home address, phone number, their school location, bank account number and any other info you deem should be kept confidential.
Be honest with the child. Tell them that just as you would not tell these things to strangers on the street, the same rule applies with online people they just met.
Kids and Social Networks
If the child has a social network account (i.e., on Facebook or Twitter), create an account too and asked to be added as a friend. This is one of the best ways to keep kids safe online. This way you will know who they are interacting with on the social networking sites.
Do not tell them not to use Facebook, Twitter etc. This will only make them more curious. Also, these social networks do have benefits as it helps them socialize. If you have an account, everything should be fine.
Make sure that the settings for the social networking site are appropriate. Ask them to check their settings. Inform them what they are about so they will know what it is about.
Learn to Use the Web
A lot of online problems can be avoided if parents learn how to use the Internet. Don’t be intimidated by the Web. If you know how to use social networks, you don’t have to worry endlessly about what your child is doing.
If possible, put the computer in the living room. This will help you keep an eye on what the child is doing. It’s okay to join in. If your child is watching videos, go watch it with them. Ask in a casual way what they did on the Net today. Don’t interrogate them; just ask.
Safety Software
There are many computer programs designed to keep kids safe online. These are capable of blocking pornographic and other objectionable websites. These programs can be configured so you can determine what levels of protection are necessary.
Finally, keep the communications line open between you and the child. Be honest. Tell them that while the Net is useful and fun, there are unscrupulous and even dangerous people there.
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