Child Safety on
the Internet
Ten Tips for Parents and Teachers |
| 1. Teach your
Children and Students Never to Give Out Personal Information Online-
This includes their name, address, phone number, school name, age, etc... |
| 2. Know the Internet-
Familiarize yourself with the Internet. Use e-mail, bulletin boards,
and chat rooms before you allow your children to do so. Seek the
assistance of local librarians, educators, or others for advice if needed. |
| 3. Set Parameters-
Set guidelines as to where your children are allowed to go online.
Create specific blocks of time that children can surf online when an adult
is present. Be sure to select grade appropriate sites for relevant
material. |
| 4. Identify the
Best Sites for Your Children- Preview sites that your children
would be interested in viewing. Use your computer to bookmark these
sites for quick and easy reference. |
| 5. Station Your
Computer in a Central Location- This enables your child to surf
with an adult nearby, rather than alone. |
| 6. Report Any
Threatening or Harassing Activity- Report any activity to your
local police department. |
| 7. Use Caution
While Downloading- Always have your children ask for permission
before downloading from the Internet. This will reduce the risk of
random viruses and/or offensive material mistakenly downloaded. |
| 8. Be Wary of
Online Friends- Be sure to talk to your children about online
friends. Although they can be wonderful, they are not always who
they say they are. So be sure your children ask permission before
chatting online. |
| 9. Trust Your
Gut- If your children don't like what someone is saying or asking
in a chat room, e-mail, or bulletin board, advise them not to answer!
Report the person and their conduct to your local Internet Service Provider. |
| 10. Keep the Communication
Lines Open- Talk openly about the Internet and all it has to
offer with your children. Make sure they know it is OKAY to talk
with you about their experiences and findings online! |