Internet Safety Guide for Parents and GuardiansContains handouts that can be downloaded. It also Includes the following seven ways to keep children safe from online predators:
1. Talk to your children about the dangers about being online and let them know that they can come to you if something or someone online makes them uncomfortable, even if they have made a mistake.
2. Never give out personal information nor should you allow your child to give out personal information, such as: addresses, phone numbers, names, or the name and location of your child’s school. Do not include personal information in an online profile. Pedophiles often use profiles as a means for finding victims online.
3. Keep the computer in a common area of the home, such as the family room. Computers with Internet access should not be kept in your child’s room, nor should they be used when you are away from home. Periodically review your child’s e-mail account.
4. Become computer literate. Get to know the online websites your kids visit and the online services they use. Find out what type of information the sites offer, and whether there are website settings to restrict objectionable material. Learn chatroom lingo.
5. Find out if your ISP offers filters. Many Internet service providers (ISPs) have tools, known as “filters,” to help parents restrict the types of websites kids can access. Find out if your ISP offers filters and learn how to use them. There are also commercially available software programs designed to help parents monitor their children’s computer activities.
6. Do not allow your child to respond to messages or bulletin board items that are sexually suggestive, obscene, or threatening. Forward a copy of such messages to your ISP.
7. Never allow your child to arrange an in-person meeting with someone they met online without your permission. In-person meetings should occur in a public place and you should accompany your child.
