"Safety first;" these are great words to live by for just about any situation. This is especially true for the internet. Kid safe internet use is one of the number one concerns of parents, teachers, and caregivers. It may even be a concern to kids, but it does not stop them from going online.
Access At Your Fingertips
Kids and teens can access all kinds of information when they surf on the internet and unfortunately we hear many of the horror stories. There are helpful things that they can check out too, like websites to improve some basic skills.
Typing practice for kids is available online. There are websites that are dedicated to all levels of typing skills. There are even sections that are for the knowledgeable typist who would like to increase their speed and proficiency. Another good exercise that offers typing practice for kids would be encouraging your child to write stories on the computer or using the computer to produce legible homework and online writing portfolio.
Computer skills for children go beyond typing. There are programs that are available for your computer that will assist your child on their learning journey. These software programs start teaching as soon as you bring them home. Computer skills are not just being able to turn on your computer and find internet games, but it is knowing how your computer works. Installing software is one type of computer skill for children. They will learn order of operation skills, patience, and problem solving; if the program is not loaded correctly. There are programs that help create spreadsheets, written documents, and video presentations. Each of these programs has their own set of rules and tricks that will enhance the children’s writing forum and computer skills for children.
Independent Computer Safety
Your child has been fighting for independence since day one and that is true when it comes to surfing on the net. Giving them independence does promote growth, but you want them to grow in a safe environment. A kid safe internet would be great, but how do you protect them from everything? Well, chances are you cannot protect them from everything on the internet just like you cannot protect them from everything going on in their world. However, there are things that you can do:
• Load your computer with kid security software. This will block out some of the adult websites that are accessed, even through a general search.
• Start searching the web with a kid safe web browser. Starting there will further protect your kids from an accidental accessed adult website.
• Communication – Talk with your child (young and teen) about what is okay to access on the web and what you do not agree to. See where they are going and don't be shocked when they show you their face book page. Open and safe communication will hopefully show your child that they can come to you no matter the situation.
• Rules – Come up with rules for and with your child about the internet usage. It is best not to be the strong armed authoritarian in this situation because kids can and will access the internet at other outlets.
Some really great internet sites for kids and teens are writing websites designed for them. This type of safe outlet for kids will give them a place to share their thoughts with their peers. A writing website gives them areas to write poetry, lyrics, and stories about the topics that are important to them. They can also read other writings from kids from around the world to see what they are thinking about. They can give each other feedback on their writings and advice about certain things they may be concerned with.
The internet can be a useful tool for you and your child or teen. It is a doorway to the world and what it offers, but just like the "real world" there are things that you need to protect your kid from. Kid safe internet practices need to be in place to insure a safe internet adventure.
