Internet Safety Article

Parenting Your Children Online

Which of the following is true? The Internet is:

a) A vast source of information
b) A superior communications tool
c) A way of using computers to have fun
d) A haven for criminals, many of whom prey on children
e) All of the above

The answer, of course, is (e). Forget "cyberspace" - the Internet is like a vast 24-hour city, with all the good and bad things a city has to offer. And just like a city at night, it's not a good place to let your children go out alone.

Consider these figures:

• According to a 1999 study,* approximately one in five children between 10 and 17 had received a sexual solicitation online.
• One in 33 of these solicitations were characterized as "aggressive" - the solicitor tried to set up meetings, or phoned or sent gifts, including money (with the suggestion it be used to make travel arrangements).
• One in 17 children was threatened or harassed.
• Less than 10 percent of sexual solicitations were reported to authorities.

Children face other Internet dangers too. They may be exposed to pornography, racism, graphic violence, cults and/or criminal activity. Even if they are relatively cautious, they may unwittingly open a file containing a virus that may damage your computer.

But don't pull the plug just yet...

So the Internet has a dark side. But even the FBI, in its publication "A Parent's Guide to Internet Safety," acknowledges that "online computer exploration opens a world of possibilities for children, expanding their horizons and exposing them to different cultures and different ways of life..."

In fact, some educators have begun to express doubts about their ability to keep up with students, now that the Internet makes so many learning resources available. Instead of relying on the books in the school or public library, students have access to research materials from around the world - without leaving their homes.

And, of course, here at Kaboose we're committed to developing a network that enriches children's lives, enhancing their educations while making learning fun. Plus, membership in the Kaboose Network provides peace of mind, because we work with parents to help ensure ours is a kid-safe community.

But our goal goes beyond creating a safe network for your children: We're dedicated to helping you parent online, even beyond the borders of Kaboose. With that in mind, here are some tips for protecting your child on the Internet.

Protecting your child

1. If you haven't already done so, get to know the Internet yourself. Spend some time using e-mail, chat and bulletin boards. See for yourself what your child is likely to encounter.

If any of this is new to you, ask someone to help. In fact, consider asking your child. They'll take pride in showing their skill, and you'll learn how sophisticated their Internet skills really are.

2. Keep your computer in a common area of the house and sit with your child while he or she is online. Once they're on a safe site you don't have to watch their every move, but as long as they're surfing your being there can prevent them from clicking on unsuitable links.

Note that keeping your child company at the computer is also a good way to spend quality time together - and help with their education. For example, if your child is researching a school project, you can help them learn to search effectively, check their reading skills and discuss the information you find.

3. Discuss the Internet with your child and agree on rules regarding computer use. These might include when the child is allowed to go online, for how long, and which sites or activities are permitted. (For example, you may want to make it a rule in your house that children tell you whenever they are switching sites and let you know where they are going.)

4. "Net-proof" your kids. Just like street-proofing, there are standard precautions every child should know about before going online. See the Kaboose article for children, "Get Internet Street-Smarts!" for more details.

5. Be alert to danger signals. Your child may be at risk if he or she:

• Quickly turns off the monitor or changes screens when you enter the room
• Spends long periods of time on the computer, especially at night
• Starts getting calls from strangers (or if you see unexplained long distance charges on your phone bill)
• Receives e-mail, letters or gifts from someone you don't know

As long as you understand that the Internet is not a reliable babysitter and that your active involvement is key to your child's security, the Internet can vastly enrich your child's growth. Practice safe surfing and you'll get the best the Internet has to offer.

The Kaboose Team

* David Finkelhor, Kimberly J. Mitchell, and Janis Wolak. Online Victimization: A Report on the Nation's Youth. Alexandria, Virginia: National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, 2000, page ix.

For further reading

You can find additional resource material at these websites:

NetSmartz - Website offers information for parents, young children and teens

SafeKids.com - Excellent site operated by Dr. Lawrence ("Larry") Magid, well-known columnist and member of the board of directors of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children

"A Parent's Guide to Internet Safety" - U.S. Department of Justice, FBI Publication

(With research from "Child Safety on the Information Highway," ©1994 and 1998 by Lawrence J. Magid.)