As a long time web surfer with children, I know how engrossed we can become individually. However, it also can be a family affair. Talk to your kids about the web and what sites they are looking at. Encourage them to share with you and show you. I know it may sound corny, but it can be fun and a mutual experience. Surfing does not have to be a lonely experience.
No Personal Info - Never
Make sure your kids never give out your address, phone number, or other personal information, including where they go to school or where they like to play. We have heard too many horror stories. This is an easy way to prevent problems.
Online Manners
The cyber world might appear to be the land of make-believe but it has its own reality and it sometimes bites back. Good manners work everywhere. They are the grease that our society runs on to keep it smooth. Explain to your offspring that being polite both on and offline is a good idea.
Trust Themselves
Along with good manners, get your children to trust themselves and their instincts, if they do not feel right about something, chances are that they are right and should tell you right away.
No Right to Copy
It is important to let your children know that it is illegal to copy others work whether it be games, music, videos, etc. Copyrighted programs belong to the owner and copying them is stealing. It is important to respect the rights of others.
Parental Controls
As parents, we have the responsibility to protect our children from harmful things including online content. Use parental control software to filter out harmful images and content. If you have any other suggestions that you have found successful, let me know.
(reprinted from CounterSpy News)
