Photo from the Children's Room

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Online Safety

Kids

  • Start at a kids' starting place, like Yahooligans (http://www.yahooligans.com)
  • Don't give out any personal information about yourself, like your telephone number, address, picture, or real full name. Most experts suggest you use your first name only. Never agree to meet someone you "meet" online without your parent or guardian there, no matter what. People online may not be who they seem to be, so be careful!
  • Don't believe everything you read. Some websites, especially the ones which end in ".edu" may be fine, but always ask "Who made this site? Why? When?" A lot of web sites present very biased information-- they are trying to convince you of something. The "facts" you read MIGHT be wrong. I could post a web saying that the moon really is made of green cheese! Or the facts might be old and no longer true.
  • There are a lot of great sites on the internet, so don't waste your time on anything else. If you find yourself somewhere that makes you uncomfortable, just click the back or home button on your browser to get out.
  • For kids, http://www.safekids.com/kidsrules.htm

Parents

  • Enjoy time online together. Let your child take the lead about where to go, but pay attention.
  • Keep your computer somewhere "public" in your house
  • Talk with your child about internet safety.
  • Give him/her clear, simple instructions on what is and is not allowed.
  • Include conversation about your child's "online life" when you talk together.
  • Use online experiences as another way to teach responsibility, good conduct and values.
  • Try "Families and the Internet;" a quick fact/fiction quiz to: "Quickly review the Internet and the tools available on it, explore areas of concern to parents, and offer some tips and helpful suggestions to make your child's Internet experience safer." From the Camden County Library in Camden, NJ. http://reference.camden.lib.nj.us/classes/garwood/familyinternet/
  • Try CyberNetiquette Comix Disney's fun and funny interactive comic books teaching safety in a fun way. Try Who's Afraid of Little Sweet Sheep?, The Bad Apple featuring Snow White, and Web Mania with Mr. Toad. They take a little while to load, but worth the wait!
  • Also look at this site, the mother of all internet safety sites, and still champ, "Child Safety on the Information Highway" http://www.safekids.com/child_safety.htm