Chapter 10
Conclusion (Spread the word!)
I hope that this guide has given you some good basic common sense in granting internet access privileges to your loved young ones.
I'm not sure any of us knew how much the 'net was going to impact human society when we first heard about it, perhaps in the early 90's. It has certainly brought out the best in many, the worst in some, but has altogether proven itself to be an extremely effective and beneficial tool.
With a bit of html knowledge, an internet connection, and a hosting server (many of which are free), you or your children can construct a website, just as accessible to the rest of the world as eBay, Amazon, or Google. In other words, you have access to the most potent tool for the sharing of your ideas that has ever existed.
Think about that. You can build a website in a matter of minutes that is equally visible from Zambia, Spain, Canada, Chile, Thailand, New Zealand, and, perhaps someday, Mars (http://ntrg.cs.tcd.ie/undergrad/4ba2.02/space).
Can your kids get into trouble online if they are not supervised? Certainly. However, if you do your job as a concerned parent, it is highly unlikely. Just keep the city analogy in mind each time you allow them web access. Keep them in sight, keep them protected, grant additional freedoms as they prove themselves mature and responsible enough to warrant them.
You are now an enlightened parent. You have the power to share your informed opinion with others.
You see, there is still much fear and loathing of the internet out there.
Many otherwise open-minded ones feel strongly that the 'net is an adults-only place for easy access to things that typify the dark side of human nature.
So let your friends, relatives, and acquaintances know that the internet can be a safe, educational place for kids, as long as concerned parents oversee what goes on and use their heads. And feel free to forward this e-book to them!
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