Keeping Kids Safe Online: Kids Corner

Aired on Lifetime Television
Sunday, June 18 and August 20, 2006
Show 316

There's no doubt our kids are getting more training on computers than we did. But we all know the computer has a downside. Online predators, inappropriate websites and social networking are enough to make any parent consider getting rid of at-home internet access. What can you do? Stay involved. Ask your kids: "Show me your favorite sites." "Who are your online friends?" Get the same information and ask the same questions as you do when you want to know where they go and who they hang out with after school. Next, there are email controls. You don't have to worry about what's going to be in your child's mailbox, because if it's not from authorized people, your child is not going to get it. You can also install what's called a firewall—or software that keeps kids from exploring online areas that may not be suitable. Electronics stores carry packages that allow you to select one level of access for your 8-year-old and another for your 15-year-old. Finally, make the rules clear. Never give out personal information like full names or addresses and never agree to meet someone you've met online.