The Internet is a valuable learning, communication, and entertainment provider. A child's Internet use should be based on age and the family's needs and values.

The Internet can help with research and homework, facilitate easy communications with family members and friends. Although the Internet can be educational and entertaining, children should spend time offline. Appropriate Internet activities for children should be age related. Teenage activities may not be appropriate for a young child.

Parents must understand potential Internet dangers and prepare their children, just as they prepare them for going to the playground or crossing the street.

The Internet contains inappropriate information for children, such as pornography, hate literature, aggressive advertising and violent images. Internet communication often is anonymous, especially in chat rooms or blogs. A sexual predator may pose as a friends to lure a child away from his or her family's protection. Cyberbullies may target a child for harassment.

Parents can provide the best protection for their children and help reinforce the principles learned in the classroom. Families should reach agreements about acceptable Internet activity and content.

Parents should read about and know how to respond to Internet risks. They can stay informed by signing up for a family Internet safety newsletter from resources linked on this site. Parents should talk with their children about safe and appropriate web sites and activities. Although children should be encouraged to report anything they feel uneasy about, if parents overreact, children will be less likely to confide in them the next time. The family should create rules about what children can and cannot do while online. Posting the agreements near the computer will ensure children see them often.

Monitoring is crucial. Parents should know where their children go online, how long they stay there and the warning signs that something is wrong.

Computers should be placed in family areas as opposed to bedrooms; however, be aware that instant messaging devices, cell phones, and wireless computers may allow children to get online anywhere. When young children first begin going online, parents should work closely with them and talk about Internet safety at an early age. Filters are helpful but not fail proof. Be aware of circumventor sites, which allow users to get around filtering software controls. Parents should seek training to learn different methods of monitoring your child's Internet use. and consistently check history, bookmarks and favorites. Recognize the warning signs of when a child might be in trouble, doing something they should not be doing, or spending too much time on the Internet. Report any problems to the Internet Service Provider and local law enforcement. Some Internet activities are not only dangerous but illegal. As the parent be familiar with relevant laws.

From Guidelines and Resources for Internet Safety in Schools produced by Virginia Department of Education, Office of Educational Technology.

This page last updated November 12, 2007