Internet Safety Information
Online Safety Tips for Parents
(From Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan's website. http://www.ag.state.il.us/children/parentstips.pdf)
The Internet is an exciting tool for people of all ages. Unfortunately, children and teens may run into information and people online that they are not sure how to handle. It is important that you talk with your kids about their Internet use and let them know they can come to you for help. Setting a good example online is also a great way to show your children how to use the Internet responsibly and stay safe.
The following are some online safety tips for parents:
- Keep the computer in a room—other than the child’s—with frequent foot traffic, so all household members can monitor times of use and material viewed.
- Set up agreements and guidelines about the use of the computer. Online Parent-Child Internet Agreement from Illinois Attorney General
- Understand the functions of the software programs your child uses. If you do not understand these functions, ask your child to teach you.
- Be aware of what Internet sites your child is visiting. Investigate blocking or screening services provided by various Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and software programs.
- Learn about everyone your child meets online and discuss these relationships with your child.
- Spend time online with your child and discuss their online experiences just as you would ask them about their day.
Set a good example for your children with your own Internet use:
- Do not respond to any threatening or offensive messages and encourage your child to do the same.
- Never give out any personal information and encourage your child to do the same.
From Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan's website. http://www.ag.state.il.us/children/parentstips.pdf
Internet Safety Links
- Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan
- National Center for Missing and Exploited Children
- Cyber Tip Line (Has your child ever been sent inappropriate material by someone he or she met online? Has your child ever inadvertently encountered inappropriate material? These are all types of child sexual exploitation. Make a report at CyberTipline.com or by calling 1.800.THE.LOST if you have information that will help in our fight against child sexual exploitation.)
- Net Smart Workshop