I.C.A.C. - Silicon Valley - Parents
The Power To Make A Difference...
Helpful Information for Adults
Before allowing your kids to go online, develop rules for their Internet use. Rules should include what websites your child can visit, who they can talk to online, how long they can be online and where they can use a computer.
It isn't a matter of trust, it's a matter of safety.
- Talk to your children about the dangers 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.
- Never give out personal information, or 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 to finding victims online.
- 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 or be used when you are not at home. Periodically review your child's e-mail account.
- Become computer literate. Get to know the online websites your kids go to and the online services they use. Find out what types of information the sites offer and whether there are built-in ways to block out objectionable material. Learn chatroom lingo.
- 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 kid's computer activities.
- 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.
- 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.
