The Internet and many social networking sites are extremely popular among teenagers. As estimated by Nielsen NetRatings, 429 million people have Internet access across the world. While the Internet contains a plethora of good information, it can also pose dangers to teenagers. Seventy-six percent of parents want to make the Internet safer for their kids, according to the National Attitudinal Poll, and they can take some steps to ensure that it is.
Step 1
Set specific rules for Internet usage. This includes the hours that are acceptable and the types of websites that are not to be visited.
Step 2
Use filters and security tools to screen content that a teen can see and reduce the amount of offensive pop-ups.
Step 3
Keep computers in main areas of the house. Keeping a computer in plain sight will reduce temptation and make your teen think twice before doing something he doesn't want anyone else to see.
Step 4
Explain to your teen that she should never download anything without your permission. File sharing can be illegal or infect the computer with viruses.
Step 5
Inform your teen that it is never acceptable to give out any personal information. This includes name, phone number, school or home address.
Step 6
Help your teen understand that harassment is not acceptable. If he is experiencing harassment or anything that makes him feel uncomfortable, he needs to know that he can always go to you for help.
Step 7
Warn your teen that she must never agree to meet in person someone she's met online. People are not always who they say they are, and pedophiles prey on teenagers and children through the Internet.
Step 8
Insist that your teenager check with you before performing any financial transaction. Identity theft can happen to teenagers just as easily as it can happen to adults.
Step 9
Teach respect. A teenager should always be respectful of others and himself when using the Internet.
Step 10
Make sure that your teen is not posting anything inappropriate, especially pictures online. Information on the Internet is permanent and can be viewed by anyone.
Step 11
Advise your teen to seek the guidance of a parent or counselor rather than talking about problems online. Others can view information that is published online.
Step 12
Look at the history of websites your teen visits. Be involved in her Internet activity.
Step 13
Discuss the dangers of pornography and adult-oriented sites. Help your teen to understand that such sites are not appropriate.
Tips and Warnings
- FBI.gov says parents should insist on having the passwords to their teenager's email and social networking sites. Be up-front and honest with your teen about why you are monitoring his accounts.
- Pornographic websites use popular search terms to bring more people to their sites. Some seemingly innocent search terms can bring up such websites.
