The Internet and Your Child
Even without trying, your child may come across material on the Internet that is obscene, violent, hate- filled, racist, or offensive in other ways. One type of material, child pornography, is even illegal. If you or your child encounter child pornography, you should report it to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-THE LOST (843-5678). Though other material is not illegal, you should take the following steps to keep it away from your child:
- Make sure your child understands what you consider appropriate for him and what areas are off limits. Set clear rules and enforce them.
- Look into software or services that can filter or block offensive Web sites and material. Also, many Internet service providers offer site blocking, restrictions on e-mail, and other controls for parents. Be aware, however, that many children are smart enough to find ways around these restrictions. Nothing can replace supervision.
- Make a point to participate in your child's on-line time. Put the computer in the living room or family room. Stay involved and monitor what your child is doing.
- Find out what the Internet use policies are at your child's school or at your local library.
Anyone can put information on the Internet and not all of it is reliable. Some people and organizations are very careful about the accuracy of the information they post, others are not. Some give false information on purpose. Remind your children not to copy on-line information and claim it is their own.
There is an almost unlimited amount of information, products, and services available on the Internet, and it continues to grow. It is important to be aware of the potential risks involved in going on-line. By setting clear rules and using common sense, you can help your child take advantage of the vast resources the Internet offers, while at the same time having fun and staying safe.
(c) Copyright 2000 American Academy of Pediatrics
