While the internet technology allows children unprecedented access to information and knowledge, it also leaves them potentially vulnerable to online predators and cyberbullying. Here are parental tips and the age-based children's internet use guidelines that the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests:
For Parents:
- Monitor you child's internet use and content. Make rules regarding appropriate and inappropriate sites.
- Use the interet with your children. Place the computer in the family room rather than in your child's bedroom or secluded office space. Consider tracking software if and when supervision is not possible.
- Research software or services that can block or filter offensive and inappropriate web sites and materials.
- Learn about the internet regulations at your child's school, the local library, and homes of his or her friends.
Age-Based Intenet Use Guidelines:
Up to age 10- Children this age need supervision and monitoring to ensure they are not exposed to inappropriate materials. Parents should us the Internet safety tools to limit access to content, web sites and activities, and be actively involved in their child's internet use.
Ages 11-14- Children need supervision and monitoring to ensure they are not exposed to inappropriate materials. Children this ago also need to understand what personal information should NOT be given or posted over the internet. Note: Facebook's use is intended for users 13 years old and older.
Ages 15-18- Parents should be available to help their teens understand the inappropriate messages and avoid unsafe situations. Parents may need to continually remind teens what personal information should NOT be given or posted over the internet.
