It is clear the internet is resourceful, but at the same time causes quite a bit of risk…..interpretation…….fear…….and we now question what kids are faced with.  What does all of this mean? There is a ton of inappropriate stuff scattered all over the web kids will eventually see and hear about…….however, do they in fact need to learn about it on their own with out parental direction?  This raises a ton of questions as to what we should be doing as parents? Do we allow kids freedom to drive all over the internet? Should we enforce bigger rules in the home? More importantly, how do we make laws that can be enforced to protect kids from the scum on the internet to the inappropriate content that exists today and will grow tomorrow?

Here is a short list of things you can do as a parent. These are just my own ideas as a parent today:

– Limit the time on the internet
– Get an idea by being near your kids at what they are reviewing
– Coach them early and provide clear direction to healthy destinations
– Don’t just assume they are doing the right thing
– Evaluate some their behavior based on what they are reviewing on the web
– Review the history of where they are browsing to really understand where their interests reside
– Lastly, be an involved parent and show your kids the safe places they can enjoy

It is expected kids will be on the web looking……learning….discovering…….and going into sites that present questions.  However, it is also critical as a parent that you help guide your children to those “safe” places.  They just might stumble into parts of the web that they don’t belong in, however some level of guidance is more likely to position them to positive exposure. As parents, it is a basic responsibility to protect kids from the toxicity of the web.

By

Bradley D. Weisman

Please note: That any suggestions are based on personal experiences and knowledge garnered from self-education. Neither Menofvalue.com or Brad Weisman offer any guarantees or are responsible for the consequences for any advice taken.