The internet can be either an educational opportunity for children, or it can be a door to a host of dangers like internet predators and inappropriate subject matter. To face these concerns, many software and internet companies have started developing tools to help kids have fun and learn on the internet, while protecting their identity and safety at the same time.
Filters
Filters are one important web tool that should be used on any computer that children or teenagers use. Filters are software programs that allow you to determine exactly what sites your child can view. Sites can be manually imputed to limit your child to only specific sites, or you can set the filter to block sites based on subject matter, such as pornography, language and violence. Filters are password-protected, allowing you to be the only one with authority to change the parameters of the filter. With the password, you can also unlock web pages or bypass and change the filter settings when you, or another adult, is on the internet.
Search Engines
Search engines designed for kids are also a helpful tool when allowing children to use the internet. Companies such as KidsClick allow children to search for specific terms but limit the results that show up from the search to ones that are appropriate for a child to view.
Timers
Internet timers can also be a helpful web tool when monitoring your child's internet activities. Timers allow you to specifically set how long your child can be online each day. These timers can also be used to limit time on the computer before your child is logged out for the rest of the day. This web tool can come in handy for children who spend too much time online playing games or on social networking sites such as Facebook or MySpace.
Trackers
Tracking tools can also be important web tools for computers used by children. Tracking tools log each website your child visits while on the computer. This can help you control and monitor what sites your child visits and participates on. Some tracking software programs also provide key logging, which records every key stroke made on the computer, allowing you to see what conversations have gone on in instant messaging windows.
