The Other Side of the Internet
The Internet is a wonderful place for tweens and teens to explore to research school projects, learn new information, keep up with the latest music and even talk to friends. It also has a much darker side that may expose kids to topics parents might prefer they steer clear from. That’s why it’s important for parents to discuss the “darker side” of the Internet and make sure kids know how to steer clear of it.
Porn, Gambling, Racism, Anorexia and Hate Sites
While the Internet might be the place to turn to research a paper on current events, it also offers tons of information on life’s more unsavory topics. Parents will find that in some of its darkest and most dangerous corners, illegal activities loom and children may find themselves falling prey to those with less-than-noble purposes. To help children avoid the pitfalls while ensuring they can access the benefits, make sure to consider these tips when kids go online:
- Employ parental controls and browser filters – There are settings on programs and browsers parents can enable that will help kids avoid stumbling on XXX rated sites, for example. Make sure to use Internet protection programs, such as those offered by Norton, that deliver parental controls to lock out these sites.
- Make sure kids know to share what they’ve stumbled upon – Even with parental controls in place, it’s possible kids will stumble across information or images that are unsettling. Make sure kids know to share what they find and that they know they won’t get in trouble for accidentally stumbling on something that’s upsetting.
- Check children’s browser histories – This can enable parents to easily see the sites kids have visited and may serve as an early warning about potentially risky behaviors. Keep an eye out for sites that share racist or hateful messages, porn sites and those that promote such behaviors as drug use, anorexia, gambling or cutting. If any of these sites show up, talk about them. Don’t assume a visit was out of idle curiosity or by chance. It’s best to confront it head on to make sure issues such as self-loathing or depression aren’t present.
Aside from antivirus and online protection programs, the best help parents can offer their children in the online world is to remain active participants in children’s Internet use. Check their activities, review the sites they’ve been on and keep an open, honest and non-confrontational dialog going. This can help kids enjoy the Internet safely while ensuring a strong and healthy relationship between parents and their kids.