Internet Tips for Parents

Make sure the computer is placed in a central location of the home.

Having the computer centrally located decreases the temptation to continue viewing a questionable site, if one is encountered.

Set up one computer administrator.

In the user accounts menu of your computer, make sure that only one person is the computer administrator. Any other users should be at the limited setting. This will help keep children from making changes to the computer and keep them from downloading software from the Internet without the administrator’s permission.

Set time limits on Internet use.

Try to eliminate times that children will be alone on the Internet, such as late at night or when mom and dad are away from the house. Some Internet filters contain time-control features that will help.

Know whom the children are talking to via Email or Instant Messaging.

Periodically check your children’s email to see with whom they are conversing. Also, ask them to explain whom they are talking to via instant messaging and from where they know them. If they don’t know them in person, it would be wise to not communicate with them over the Internet.

Beware of other computers your children may have access to.

The other computers your children have access to may not have the same restrictions as your home computer.

Many libraries DO NOT have an Internet filter on their computers.

Unfortunately, the number one place that online pornography is accessed is the public library. Do not assume the kids are safe if you drop them off. Even if they don’t look up pornography, they could be sitting beside someone who will.

Always use a “ Safe Search” when looking up material on the Internet.

A safe search will filter your search engine requests and eliminate the questionable websites that may surface while looking for a harmless term. (A free “Google Safe Search” is provided at home.integrity.com)

Make sure your children do not use file-sharing programs.

Some examples of file sharing programs are Limewire, Emule, kazza, etc. These file-sharing programs are known to be haven for Internet porn, and allow people to pass the material to each other.

Make sure that any screen names used are non-descriptive (age, sex, location, etc.)

Do not allow kids to use their personal name, location, and any other means of identification in their usernames. It is difficult for children to understand why they cannot use these apparently safe sites to disclose personal information, but it simply is not worth the risk.

Discuss the potential hazards that are available on the Internet.

The Internet is the greatest communication and educational tool ever invented. While is has opened up a world of facts and conveniences, it has also opened up a world of potentially harmful material.

Encourage the kids to tell you immediately if they see anything that makes them feel uncomfortable.

Nothing can take the place of having good communication with your kids. Make sure they are comfortable telling you if something “pops up” that is unexpected.

Try using an Internet filter.

The newest filters are far advanced to the old keyword filters that would stop you at every turn. Some filters can be tailored to fit your own personal filtering needs. With over 4.2 million pornographic web sites available, a filter is a necessity.