Parents Guide to the Internet

2008 February 11 by: Scott

Limiting Children to Appropriate Content on the Internet
Even without trying, your children can come across materials on the Internet that are obscene, pornographic, violent, hate filled, racist, or offensive in other ways. One type of material–child pornography–is illegal. You should report it to the Center for Missing and Exploited Children by calling 1-800-THE LOST (843-5678) or going to www.missingkids.com. While other offensive material is not illegal, there are steps you can take to keep it away from your children and out of your home.
Make sure your children understand what you consider appropriate for them. What kinds of sites are they welcome to visit? What areas are off limits? How much time can they spend, and when? How much money, if any, can they spend? Set out clear, reasonable rules and consequences for breaking them.

Make online exploration a family activity. Put the computer in the living room or family room. This arrangement involves everyone and helps you monitor what your children are doing.

Pay attention to games your older child might download or copy. Some are violent or contain sexual content. Child psychology experts warn of the negative psychological effects that violence or sexual content shown on the internet can have on a young child. Research indicates that children subjected to an over abundance of violence become more aggressive and disrespectful of others.

Look into software or online services that filter out offensive materials and sites. Options include stand alone software that can be installed on your computer, and devices that label or filter content directly on the web. In addition, many Internet Service Providers and commercial online services offer site blocking, restrictions on incoming e-mail, and children’s accounts that access specific services. Often, these controls are available at no additional cost. Be aware, however, children are often smart enough to get around these restrictions. Nothing can replace your supervision and involvement.

Find out what the Internet use policy is at your local library and your child’s school.