Internet Safety for Children

Today, a computer system is affordable and the Internet is highly accessible for anyone at home. The parents’ decision of buying a computer and connecting it to the internet is usually for the children. The internet has much to offer to cultivate children’s knowledge from and as a tool for communication.

Lately, there have been many reported cases around the world relating to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying targeted at children. These cases can be avoided if children are made aware of the workings of such activities and its prevention, e.g. safe chat, meeting strangers, etc. Parents need to be involved and teach children internet safety. They will be better aware of the dangers and be more responsible online.

Here are some tips on internet safety.

1. Keep the computer in a public area of the house instead of the children’s bedroom as it is more difficult to supervise them. Ensure that the computer screen is not hidden and can be easily seen. Occasionally, observe the website they are visiting.
2. Learn what your children’s favorite websites or online activities.You can check in the browser’s history to learn new websites they have visited.
3. Educate children on what information can and cannot be shared online with anyone such as personal information such as home address, phone number or school name or photos.
4. Advise children to never respond to online friends’ request to meet them without your consent. If you agree, you must accompany your child and ask to meet in public places.
5. Emphasise to your children to never open email attachment from unknown people. Educate them on the danger of virus spread via email attachments and how it can harm their computer.
6. Constantly assure your children that they can seek your help when they are unsure or upset over certain stuff in the Internet. Be positive and don’t overreact when they tell the truth. Try not to give harsh punishment as this will make them unlikely to approach you in the future.
7. Remind your children that new friends they meet online may not be who they seem, and things they are told or read online may not be true. There’s a possibility of a different identity online and reality.

With parents’ involvement in children’s internet exposure and activity, it protects the children online safety and creates a safer society for all. Children seem to be the weakest link when it comes to communicating over the web and they easily become victims of harassment and stalking. There are many resources available online that focuses on this issue and what is more important is the proactive approach to be taken by all parents to educate their children.