Safeguard your child online

Safeguard your child online

  • 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