Your kids likely are more computer savvy than you are. Most kids today don't remember life before ubiquitous computers and unfettered online access, so going online and using computer programs is second nature to them. Thankfully you don't need a computer science degree to exercise a little control over your child's behavior on the computer in your home. A few simple tools allow you to monitor your child's activity, restrict game use and block specific programs.
Techniques
Blocking access to or limiting the use of certain software already present on the computer is accomplished with the tools provided in the operating system or via a third-party software package or service. Windows provides robust controls available in XP and later systems, with dramatic improvements available in Windows 7.
The tools are found in the "Parental Controls" subheading under "User Accounts" in the Control Panel. You can be as restrictive or liberal as you choose in your permissions, and you can set different limits for different users.
Assigning Usernames
Customizing controls for different children in the house requires that each person uses his own login. Setting up individual user accounts can only be done by an administrator, or a user with administrator privileges, so your child can't create new accounts that bypass the restrictions that you establish. When you are logged into the computer as yourself, you'll find the "User Accounts" feature in the Control Panel. Have each child choose her own password and ask her not to share it with anyone except you.
Download Limits
Downloading software from unscrupulous sites or peer-to-peer networks can leave you vulnerable to viruses or malware bundled within. To prevent infection, you can bar individual users from downloading software at all by blocking that capability in "Parental Controls." More robust controls over online activity exist in third-party software programs like Net Nanny or Norton Family Safety, or you can enhance the existing capability of Windows by adding a Windows Live service called Windows Live OneCare Family Safety.
Permissions
You can set permissions for each individual program if you have only one or two items that you need to block for another user. You must be logged on as an administrator to do so. Simply right-click on the program shortcut and select "Properties." You can grant full access, limited access or no access to any file, folder or program on the computer.
Games
Improved functionality in Windows versions Vista and later includes separate monitoring and control of game programs. You can limit each user's ability to open games by rating, or you can block game programs entirely.
