PROTECTING YOUR KIDS

ONLINE
TAKE CHARGE
Set some ground rules.
Establish basic guidelines like
when your kids can go online, MONITOR
what sites they can visit, and
how many texts they can send Supervise Internet use.
a month, so everyone is on If you can see what your kids
the same page. are doing, they’re less likely COMMUNICATE
to get in trouble.
Research before you buy. Talk to your kids;
they’re not as mysterious
Did you know that handheld Safeguards ≠ Safe Kids.
as you think.
games can connect to the Installing CIA-level monitoring
Internet or that many laptops Your kids might not tell you
software on your kids’
have built-in webcams? everything, but that doesn’t
computers does not guarantee
Understand what technology mean you shouldn’t ask. Get
they’ll be safe online.
you’re bringing into your home. involved so you’re not the last
Technology can’t replace
to know.
your time and attention as a
Don’t just sit there– parent or guardian.
REPORT! Challenge them to a duel.
If your kids are dealing with Don’t go overboard. If you have kids who like
cyberbullies or potential to play video or computer
It’s smart to keep an eye on
predators, report them to the games, ask if you can play,
your kids’ social networking
website, cell phone service, too. When you respect their
profiles, but it’s never cool
law enforcement, interests, they’re more likely
when you post embarrassing
or www.cybertipline.com. to respect your rules.
messages or pictures to
their page.
Don’t pull the plug.
Taking away your kids’
Internet access because
they’ve done something
wrong doesn’t solve the
problem. Talk to them about
protecting themselves and
respecting others online.

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