Teaching kids about Internet safety is important, because parents and guardians can't always be with them when they are accessing the Internet. It's also critical to teach them Internet safety when they're young. According to Common Sense Media, by the time a typical child reaches middle school, he is already participating in chat rooms and blogs and using email and instant messaging. Many kids are involved with social networking and have screen names. People who go onto the Internet can do so anonymously, which can lead to such online dangers as cyber-bullying.
Step 1
Communicate the dangers of the Internet to your kids. Some people use the Internet for illicit purposes. Some people may stalk children, while others may search for personal information, such as Social Security numbers. Other people may attempt to infect a home computer with a virus.
Step 2
Establish a set of Internet rules for your kids, and make sure they understand them. One useful rule is to never open an email from someone unknown. Another rule is to not give out any personal information, such as street addresses or telephone numbers. Other information that should not be given out includes names of family members, school names and daily schedules.
Step 3
Explain behavior that should be considered suspicious, such as someone entering a chat room and asking about ages or online comments requesting a child's personal information. When kids observe suspicious behavior, tell them to seek clarification from a trusted adult, such as a teacher or parent.
Step 4
Keep the kids involved with your own Internet activity, whether it's researching a new product, shopping online or searching for the cheapest airfare. While you conduct your Internet activities, explain to your kids what you're doing and why doing them in other ways may expose you to risk.
Step 5
Stay involved with the kids and their Internet activity to help you ensure they are following safe Internet practices and adhering to your Internet rules.
Tips and Warnings
- Sometimes kids will nod their heads when you ask if they understand what they've just been told. Ask your children to repeat what was just said and explain why it's important to verify that they've understood your discussion. Keep the computer that kids use in an open area so their activities can be monitored, which discourages risky behavior.
- Because technology evolves so quickly, some new dangers may be unknown. Stay alert, and inform kids of any new safety rules to help protect them from new threats.
