When I was 6 months old my family took it's annual vacation to Panama City Beach, Flordia. Apparently there's a rumor that babies naturally know how to swim. Being the risk takers that they are, and me being only six months old, my family put the theory to the test. It's true, babies can swim, they just can't breath under water! After years of going to the beach I've become a pretty decent swimmer. I love going to the ocean, battling the waves and enjoying God's creation. But every year while we are on the beach we hear stories about drowning accidents, shark attacks and the dangers of the ocean and yet, we continue to go back. I guess there are some things in life that are just worth the risk. Sure you take precautions, you get training, you watch out for warning signs, but ultimately it's worth the risk if you engage it safely.
I believe the internet is the same way. Lists of pros and cons are limitless. There are fantastic advantages and tremendous dangers out there on the web, but I believe that we have to prepare our students for a world that is simply unavoidable. While as a parent you may have varying opinions on YouTube, Facebook, MySpace and Twitter, I think it's vital to have an action plan of teaching your child how to use the the web safely.
This past Monday night we had a fantastic Parent Summit where we attempted to tackle this difficult topic. Here are some of the key points that I walked away with.
- Keep the Computer in a public place, never behind closed doors.
- Get a web filter. (K9 Web protection, NetNanny, BSafe Online, etc.)
- Set up clear rules and expectations before they start surfing. Maybe even a contract.
-Time Limits
-Sites they should avoid
-What they are and are not allowed to do (i.e. shop, IM, join social networks, etc.)
- Discuss the importance of integrity on the web. Who they are online matters!
- Define strangers. Knowing their name doesn't mean they aren't a stranger.
- Teach them about scams. Avoid ads and shady links.
- Don't give out personal information or passwords.
- What goes on the web, stays on the web. Forever.
- Go where they go. Experience it with them so you know what they still need to learn about the web.
- If they are on Facebook, MySpace or Twitter you should be too!
It was a great night of discussion and I learned a lot. For more great in formation I found the Focus on the Family website to be very helpful.
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