Parents have always felt that raising a child is "tougher than ever." That is particularly true now in the age of Web surfing and instant on-line communication.
How can parents protect their child as they learn to use the Internet? There are several steps you can take:
1Set up your computer in a well-used area. A young child should only use the computer while he or she is supervised. Placing the system near the main living area or kitchen allows family members to answer questions and oversee the child's use of the computer.
2 Install an anti-virus, anti-spyware and activate security settings. AVG-free, Avast, Spybot and Ad-aware are excellent malware programs available free on the Internet. Activate the firewall and popup blocker included with your operating system, and adjust security settings appropriately for your child's safety.
3 Limit Web sites by using content filtering software or a browser created for children. OpenDNS is available online and will block Web sites that violate the parameters you set for it. There are also Internet browsers developed specifically for children. The Dreamworks Shrek Browser for Kids is a low-cost alternative. Instead of using Internet Explorer or Firefox, your child would click on Shrek to get online. Only your pre-approved sites would be accessible to your child.
4On-Going Guidance: Continue to monitor your child's use of the computer. No software can protect your child like you can. Know the people with whom they communicate. Teach them not to give out personal information, and not to respond to unsolicited e-mail or messages. Know that social networks, instant messages, e-mail, and Internet searches can invite unwanted contact. Remind your child regularly to let you know what they discover. Sharing the good things will make it easier for them to share when they are unsure. Don't hesitate to limit the amount of time on the computer. Life is about so much more.
5Monitoring: If you are concerned that your child has developed bad habits on the computer and is not responding to your warnings, there is software available to allow you to supervise your child's Internet usage. Purple Dude Internet Watch is available free online. It tracks your child's habits and forwards the information you request. Find it free at purpledude.com.
This morning Mike and Patty Harshbarger, owners of Computer Renaissance in Bradenton, will be discussing child Internet safety on WFLA at 10 a.m. You can also see a recap on the company's Web site at patty@cr-bradenton.com.
TECHNOLOGY
Patty Harshbarger x patty@cr-bradenton.com
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