PARENTAL SAFETY TIPS

• Play an active role in your child's online activities. Try to make the Internet a fun, family learning activity.
• Don't put an Internet-ready computer in your child's bedroom. Keep the computer in an open, public location in your house.
• Set a time limit for your child's Internet use.
• Be aware of the services and sites your child uses. If you don't know how to utilize the services then have your child show you. Look for a "family-friendly" online service provider.
• Be very careful about posting information about your child or your family online.
• Establish clear guidelines for your child's Internet use. Teach your children that there will be consequences for their actions. Consider using a contract to make the rules clear and enforceable.
• Don't be scared or overwhelmed by technology! You can learn the technology you need to protect your child online. The resources you need are on these pages or the links to these pages. Use them to empower yourself and protect your family.
• Don't allow your child to post information on the Internet.
• Tell your child that you love them and that they can turn to you if they have questions or need help with tough times they encounter. If you don't, someone else that they meet online will, and the consequences could be tragic.
• Remember that children are curious and sometimes get themselves in situations they did not mean to get into. Remember also that if a child is approached by an adult predator, it is not the child's fault. The child may feel a number of emotions including guilt, disappointment, and shame, and will likely have trouble talking to you.