West Islip Union Free School District

Tips for Parents - How to Protect Your Child on the Internet

The Internet has opened up a whole new world for our children. Research, homework help, museums, email, chatting, games, and more are readily available at the touch of a button. But there are certain things from which our children need to be protected, too. With some knowledge and participation, you can help your child stay safe online. Here are some tips of what you can do to keep your children safe online.
Learn about the Internet - Become more computer literate, and know what services your Internet provider offer. Do they provide "Parental Controls"? Can your child create "profiles"? Their own web page? If so, monitor what they create. You may be surprised!
Discuss with your child about anonymity online. Explain to them that a person is not always who they represent themselves to be. That nice 10 year old girl they've been talking to may truly be a 40 year old man.
Never allow your child to give out personal information such as their address, phone number, birth date.
Do not allow your child to respond to messages that make them uncomfortable. Obscene or threatening messages should be forwarded to your Internet Service Provider (AOL, Optimum Online, Verizon, etc.).
Do not allow your child to arrange a meeting with someone they have met online.
Consider "blocking and filtering" software. These programs will actually block certain types of websites from being viewed on your computer. "Net Nanny" and "CYBERsitter" are two examples.
Help your child create their user name. Avoid using personal information such as first and last name, birth date, and home town.
Sit down with your child and agree on your own home policies. Agree on time limits, types of websites your child may and may not visit, use of Instant Messaging and chat rooms.
Keep your online computer in a family living space so you are able to monitor activities.

Tips for Kids

Never give your password to anyone other than your parents.
Do not agree to meet someone that you have met online without getting your parent's permission.
Do not give out personal information like your first and last name, address, or phone number.
If you ever come across anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, tell your parents or teacher.
Follow the guidelines set up by your parents. They are there to keep you safe!
Do not open email from people you do not know. These emails could contain a computer virus or inappropriate material.
Remember your manners online. Words written are just as strong as words spoken.

Internet Safety Resources

GetNetWise.org
An Online Safety Guide that has age-related safety tips, explains the types of risks online and privacy information.
NetSmartz
NetSmartz offers free, multimedia Internet safety presentations tailored for specific audiences — parents and communities, tweens, teens, and younger children. Our innovative presentations utilize the latest statistics, online resources, videos, and expert tips to educate, engage, and empower children and adults to be safer on- and offline.
NetSmartzKids.org
Videos, Activity of the Month and other resources on how to stay safe online.
Safe Kids
At this site, you'll "find tips, advice and suggestions to make your family's online experience fun and productive".
Safeteens.com
Subscribe to a free e-mail newsletter, how to protect your privacy and staying safe online are some of the topics at this site.