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Safety-tips-for-protecting-kids-online.html
Kids are logging on to the Internet more than ever before, playing
games, chatting with friends, and getting help with schoolwork.
The Internet has opened up a whole new world for them. However,
the online world, like the real world, is made up of a wide array
of people. Most are decent and respectful, but some may be rude,
obnoxious, insulting, or even mean and exploitative. Areas full
of sex, violence, drugs, and other adult themes are another possible
danger for them.
The fact that crimes are being committed online, however, is not
a reason to avoid using these services. Children need parental
supervision and common-sense advice on how to make their experiences
with the Internet happy, healthy, and productive.
In this article we will show you some necessary tips and essential
tools and tell you how to put them together to make the Internet
a safe place for your child.
Internet Filters
There are programs available to you called Internet Filtering
programs, which will run in the background on your computer while
your kids are surfing the Internet. These programs filter pornographic
and other offensive content, monitor each surfer's online journeys,
block access to certain web sites and newsgroups, keep kids out
of the shadier chat rooms and log their online activities. Combining
the use of Internet Filtering programs with as much supervision
as possible is the best method of protecting your child online.
Tip #1 Put the computer in a visible place in the house
Make sure the computer is in a visible place in the house. Ask
questions. Walk by and check what is on the screen. If your child
quickly closes the screen, this is a red flag and should be investigated.
Tip #2 Spend time on the Internet with your children
Go online with your children as often as possible and help them
identify inappropriate communications. Give them a chance to show
you what they have learned or the things they like. Send E-Greetings
and Christmas cards to family and friends or participate in interactive
games together. Ask your children to tell about their cyberspace
friends, just as you would want to know their real-life friends.
Tip #3 Schedule Internet use for your children
Limit young grade-schoolers to 30-60 minutes a few times a week;
older kids may need more frequent access for school projects.
This will make them more responsible in using the Internet.
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