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Last updated: Dec. 11, 2004

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Keeping Kids -- and Families -- Safe Online
Presentation for Parents, Teachers and Students

By Sreenath Sreenivasan
Columbia University Journalism Professor
WABC-TV Tech Guru

GENERAL THOUGHTS

  • Computers are dumb. Not you!
  • The more you know about your computers, the less likely you are to waste your time, your energy and your money.
  • Technology gets better and easier to use
  • Learning about technology together is fun -- and important

Things Parents Can Do...

KEEP THE PC IN THE OPEN
Always have the computer in the open. Don't keep it locked in your child's bedroom - 20 percent of kids have PCs in their bedrooms. And don't be secretive yourself. Set a good example.

NO PERSONAL INFORMATION
Teach your kids to never give out any personal info -- no addresses, neighborhoods, street details, and no names of their schools. If your kids are asked questions or see things that make them uncomfortable, they should come get you.

DRAW UP A "CONTRACT"
Negotiate a contract with "rules of the road" for PC use.
Samples:
Kids - http://www.safekids.com/contract.htm
Parents - http://www.safekids.com/contract_parent.htm

GET EDUCATED, GET ONLINE
Teach yourself to use the tools your kids use; surf together; sign up for chatrooms, get on instant messaging software.

HELPFUL SITES & TOOLS
Various tech items can help you. Here is a list of tools and sites to get your started...

ONLINE SAFETY GUIDES

FILTERING SOFTWARE:

KIDS BROWSERS:

FAMILY-FRIENDLY INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDERS

FURTHER READING:

Watch ABC-7 "Computers 101" Tech Special Sunday, April 14, 11-11:30 a.m.


sree.net > tips > kids safety online