The internet is a wonderful resource that we use for fun, socialising, research and work. It's hard to imagine life without it, and our children and teenagers love it even more than we do!

Internet & Your Children

Parents need to keep in touch with the programs and sites their children are using, instead of just tuning out every time you hear the terms facebook, twitter, myspace and so on. The best way to learn about the potentials and possible dangers of the internet is to become a savvy user, ask questions and learn to do new things all the time.  This way you will understand the exposure your children are receiving and you can stay on top of technology which is moving at such a fast speed.

Visit your child or teenager’s websites, check their blogs and even communicate with them!  It will be fun for you and you may even learn something.  Be open to articles you read about internet dangers, cyber bullying and internet scams targeting vulnerable users.  Empower your children, talk to them about the inernet sites they are using and it is best for young children – that their internet usage be monitored.

Keep the computer in a family area rather than in their bedroom where they can use the computer unsupervised for hours on end.  Balance is the key to getting the best out of technology.  Sitting there just tapping away at a computer is not healthy, but neither is sitting there watching hours of television.

At school, internet and web administrators take special precautions with internet safety software to ensure that illegitimate use is prevented.  Check out the various programs available for parents at home, to safeguard your children.  Set the guidelines for acceptable use – what do you allow?  How long can they stay on at any time?  Remain positive but vigilant and don’t over react to problems that may (and probably will arise).  This may be a good time to talk about language and monitoring what we say to others.

Remember, the internet has opened up our world in so many ways, so do not let the possible negatives get in the way.

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