A recent study found that almost 20 percent of 10-to-17 year-olds who regularly log on to the Internet have received unwanted sexual advances. I have received several panicky messages from viewers concerned about what this means for their kids.

Here are some tips.

DON'T PANIC: First of all, don't panic. This study doesn't mean you ban your kids from going online or get obssessed about this problem. It won't help to do so.

NO PERSONAL INFORMATION: Teach your kids to never give out personal information of any kind. If they feel someone they meet online is making them uncomfortable, they should stop communicating with that person immediately and come get you, or show you a printout of what was said, so you can take action (such as informing the senders Internet service provider).

GET EDUCATED, GET ONLINE: Teach yourself the tools your kids use; surf together; sign up for chatrooms.

SAFETEENS.COM & GETNETWISE.ORG: Sites like these provide plenty of tips for children and parents

USE HELPFUL TOOLS


Kids browsers: Surf Monkey