- Develop a trusting relationship with your child early, and keep the door of communication open.
- If you have reason to suspect your child is viewing inappropriate sites, then do not overreact. Carefully approach your son or daughter in a nonshameful, nonthreatening way.
- Keep your computers in heavy-traffic areas in your home, and spend time with your child as he or she surfs the Internet.
- Be familiar with Web sites your child visits as well as social-networking services such as Facebook, MySpace and Twitter.
- Know your child’s online friends.
- Always maintain access to your child’s online account and check history files often.
- Use a pre-filtered Internet service provider (ISP). Check www.FilterReview.com for help.
- Get to know and use the “parental controls” provided by your ISP and/or blocking software.
- Teach your child about responsible use of the resources on the Internet.
- Teach your child that the Internet is a good source for educational, recreational and creative searches but also contains potential hazards.
- Teach your child to alert you immediately when he or she accesses something on the Internet that makes him or her feel uncomfortable — no matter what it is.
Source: National Coalition for the Protection of Children & Families
Share with others: