Careful monitoring of your children's Internet use is necessary to keep them safe. The anonymity of the Internet has created a haven for predators to prey on children. Though laws have been passed to help protect children online, such as the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act, actively monitoring your children's Internet use is imperative, according to the Kids Health website. Monitor your children's online activities to ensure their safety when using the Internet.
Step 1
Talk to your children about the different types of dangers they may experience online, including sexual predators, according to the FBI. Teach them to not talk to strangers online and not to post any pictures or personal information, such as their name, address or phone number.
Step 2
Sit with your children when they are online to see what types of websites they frequently visit. Monitoring the sites your children frequent will give you a better understanding of the type of activities they are undertaking online.
Step 3
Set the computer up in a common room area so that you always have access to what your children are viewing online.
Step 4
Purchase parental control or blocking software from a computer software retailer, or contact your Internet service provider to see if it offers the same type of software. Learn how the software works and how you can use it to better monitor your children's use of the Internet. Use parental control software to block access to private chat rooms and other suspicious websites.
Step 5
Create email accounts with your children, and check your children's email account regularly for any suspicious communication. Look in the Inbox, Sent box and through any folders in the account.
Tips and Warnings
- Watch for suspicious behavior from your child that might indicate she is in contact with a sexual predator. Signs include turning off the computer when you walk into the room, spending extended periods of time online and letters or gifts coming to the house. Monitoring online use also includes monitoring other types of communication. Check your children's cell phones and mail for any activity that is out of the ordinary.
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