Tips for parents and children for a safer internet use

Become a net-savvy parent
The best safeguard against online dangers is being informed. Learn the basics of the Internet—read articles, take a class, and talk to other parents. Try to stay updated with the latest in online technology. You don’t have to be an expert to have a handle on your child’s online world.

Discuss with your kids
Develop an open dialogue so that you can talk with your kids about the benefits and dangers of the Internet. Cultivate an interest in their online activities—their favorite Web sites, online games, and interests. And don’t be afraid to ask your children who they are talking to online and what they are talking about.

Agree on some ground rules
Try to establish on your family’s guidelines for using the Internet. Post them near the family computer as a reminder. Ensure that your kids know to never share personal information on the Internet and that they should tell you about any online activity or contact that makes them uncomfortable.

Protect your computer
Use software that exists to help parents manage their children’s computer experience. In only a few minutes, parental control software  can block inappropriate websites, restrict the amount of time that your kids use the Internet and monitor their Instant Messenger chats to protect against predators.

Explore the Internet as a family
With a game plan and a protected computer, you can now encourage your family to take advantage of all that the Internet has to offer. Take a genuine interest in what your kids are doing and stay engaged with them online.

For the Children

• Do not give out personal information such as my address, telephone number, parents’ work address/telephone number without my parents’ permission.
• Tell my parents right away if I come across something that makes me feel uncomfortable.
• Never agree to go out with someone I “meet” online without first checking with my parents. If my parents agree to the meeting, I will be sure that it is in a public place and bring a parent along.
•  Talk with my parents about posting pictures of myself or others online and not post any pictures that my parents consider to be inappropriate.
• Do not give out my passwords to anyone (even my best friends) other than my parents.
• Alwas check with my parents before downloading or installing software or doing anything that could possibly hurt our computer or mobile device or jeopardize my family’s privacy.
• Help my parents understand how to have fun and learn things online and teach them things about the Internet, computers and other technology.