Tips for keeping children safe online

Watchful eyes

 Keep the computer in a family room so parents can monitor what happens online.

 Be alert if children receive gifts or letters in the mail or unusual phone calls.

 Keep kids out of chat rooms or monitor their chats. Know who they talk to.

 See what Web sites children create online. Review what information and pictures are being released.

 Take a peek at the computer screen occasionally.

 Review what files are on the computer. If computers are too confusing, ask a friend, relative or co-worker to help.

Talk to them

 Let children know not to give out personal information such as phone numbers or addresses.

 Explain that people may not be who they claim to be. Some adults pretend to be kids.

 Encourage children to discuss their favorite Web sites and talk about what happens on the Internet, including people they meet.

Limit Use

 Children should not spend too much time on the Internet, especially late at night.

 Set time limits on surfing and restrict most computer use for specific purposes, such as school work.

 Consider installing software that monitors Internet surfing.

For more safety tips go to WiredKids.org and www.wiredsafety.org.