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1. |
Place the computer in a room that easily allows the parent to monitor
its use. The child's bedroom is NOT a recommended location.
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2. |
If at all possible, be present when the child is online. Do not use
the computer as a substitute for a companion. |
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3. |
If the child tries to block the screen when a parent walks by,
consider it a warning to you that the child may be doing something
they should not be doing. Investigate IMMEDIATELY. |
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4. |
Keep control of your Internet access master account, and do not give
the child their own account. |
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5. |
Keep track of when and how long your login is being used. Late night
logins after you've gone to bed may be a sign of children "sneaking
on" to see things, or talk to people they shouldn't be. |
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6. |
Explain to your child that people may not be totally honest online.
They may pretend to be other ages, and/or sexes. |
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7. |
Do not allow your child to participate in live chat rooms while you
are not with them, and never allow them to access a private chat room
with strangers. Unfortunately, this has been the source of unpleasant
incidents on the Internet. |
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8. |
Explain to your child not to reveal any personal information: names,
addresses, phone numbers, city, employment, medical information, and
especially Social Security numbers, drivers license numbers, or credit
card numbers. Have your child get permission each time before they
give out their name and email address, and check to see what that
information is going to be used for. |
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9. |
Although much of the pornography is legal on the Internet, child
pornography is NOT legal. If you find a web site in violation, please
alert the appropriate legal authorities in your area. |
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10. |
Protect your child while on the Internet. Do your homework by reading
books, articles in parenting magazines, and visiting web sites to look
for more information. |
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11. |
The protective software listed below is very helpful, but it is not
foolproof. |
