Even when you’re worried that your kids are spending a lot of their time on the computer, it is inevitable. Computer is part of their learning process and also helps them to communicate in this modern world. All parents can do is to regulate their usage of the internet by installing monitoring programs designed to block unwanted sites or to track their online trail.
But if you want to have more peace of mind about your kids’ internet safety, it is important to establish rules beforehand. These rules are designed to govern their use of internet such that they will learn to discipline themselves, while also giving them an idea as to what you deem as appropriate or not.
Below are some general rules that you can impose on your kids in terms of internet safety:
Always remind them to never share confidential information about themselves or the family via the internet. These information can include but are not limited to the following: home address, phone number, email address, name of school, name of parents and/or siblings, and many more.
- Never share their photos on the internet, especially to strangers.
- Never share passwords to any account online.
- Never agree to meet someone you just met online.
- Never respond to or initiate offensive responses from others.
- Set up a curfew for when kids are allowed to use the internet. A lot of the unpleasant interactions happen during the night when kids know their internet usage are unmonitored.
When you set up rules when it comes to internet usage, talk to your kids about the importance behind them. And most importantly, trust in them to follow those rules. This is one way you can teach them the concept of self-discipline at an early age.