Kids and The Internet
The Internet is a wonderful learning tool for children and teens to use to do research for school projects and reports, all without ever having to leave the safe confines of their home. It also provides kids with a way to "see the world" from a computer screen and allows them to "chat" with others who share similar interests. However, as convenient and resourceful as the Internet can be, it is much like a "swimming pool" and children and teens should be supervised while they are online. Some helpful hints:
Teach your children to never give ANY personal information in chat rooms, since there is no knowing whether the 11-year old on the other end of the phone line is really a child or a 39-year old pedophile.
Put the computer in the family room or another room where there is a lot of activity so that the child is easier to supervise.
Invest in software that helps keep Internet usage safe for your children. Visit your local electronics store or www.getnetwise.org.
Discuss the dangers of the Internet with your family. Have your children sign a written agreement to follow these rules while online.
Carefully monitor your children's time online and be sure to check the browser's history to find out what sites your kids are visiting.
Surf the Internet together. There are many kid-friendly sites that are not only loaded with valuable research information, but also have games, interesting trivia and activities. As curious that children are, they are likely to find fun in visiting government and other websites specially designed for kids. Try www.nasa.gov, www.space.com, or www.nickjr.com.