How do you keep your children safe from something as large as cyberspace? Rules, that's how. Your family probably has some basic house rules in place, like whether it's okay to use the microwave unsupervised or which friends are allowed to come over after school.
Making safety rules for Internet use is just as important as any other house rule. Here are some solid Internet safety rules for you and your children:
Rules for Grownups
Learn about computers so you can monitor your child’s use.
Have parent control software – BUT don’t assume it blocks everything.
Keep the computer in a public area of the house such as the family room.
Periodically check the websites your children have been visiting and look at the files they are storing.
If your child confides in you about something inappropriate online, do not punish or blame. Take it seriously. Report the offense. Your child may be a victim of an Internet predator. It is against the law to lure children on the Internet. In Rhode Island, you can report any computer crime that occurs within state limits to your local police department.
Rules for Children
The Internet is a public place. The people you meet online are strangers. Be smart. If you wouldn’t tell something to a stranger, don’t say it on the Internet.
Get your parents if you find yourself in a situation that makes you feel uncomfortable, that seems inappropriate or becomes personal.
Tell your parents about anyone who makes the suggestion to meet you. Never agree to meet anyone.
Tell your parents about any communication that uses threatening or bad language.
Never reveal personal information.
Personal information includes:
Your real name
Where you live
Your parents' names
Your telephone number
Where you go to school
If you are home alone
When your parents come home
Any after school activities you participate in
Name of teams or events you participate in
Your job or your parents' jobs
Your family's vacation plans
Keep these rules for online safety posted near the computer.
5 Basic Rules for Internet Safety
I WILL NEVER
1. Give out my name or my parent's names.
2. Give out my address or phone number
3. Send or receive pictures from anyone
4. Give my email address or password to anyone
5. Get together with anyone I meet on the Internet
I WILL tell my parents if I get a message that is mean or makes me feel uncomfortable.
