River Forest Public Library

Internet Safety - Guidelines for Parents (adapted from safeteens.com & isafe.org)

Tips for Parents

• Keep the computer in a room other than the child's bedroom, so you can monitor what your child is doing, and for how long.
• Set up an agreement and guidelines with your child about the use of the computer, including appropriate schedules and durations.
• Understand the services that your child uses online. If you do not understand them, have your child teach you about them.
• Investigate blocking and screening services offered by your ISP or by other web sites or software providers.
• Spend time online with your child so that you can set a good example for online behavior.
• Never respond to threatening or offensive messages, and encourage your child to do the same.
• Encourage your child never to give out any personal information.
• When discussing your child's day, be sure and ask about time spent online.
• Remind your children never to meet anyone they have met online without your permission and without your presence.
• Make sure to learn about everyone your child meets online, and discuss these relationships with your child.

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last updated 03/16/2007