How to Monitor Children's Internet Use

The Internet is an incredible resource and is almost necessary for modern life. The Internet is also huge and uncontrolled, which could mean trouble for your children if not properly monitored. Willingly or unwillingly, children can find themselves on sites that they shouldn't be on. In order to protect your children, it is important to be able to monitor their Internet use and create a safe environment in which they can use the Internet.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Put the computer somewhere that you can easily see it when your children are using it. Having a separate computer room or a computer in your child's room can mean that a child can be looking at a site or interacting with someone they shouldn't be without you knowing. If the computer is in a well-trafficked area, it will be harder for them to surf to an inappropriate site.

2. Check the browsing history. If a child is trying to hide something, they may know to delete the browsing history, but if you know when they are on the Internet, you can check to see if there are gaps of time missing in the history.

3. Install software that blocks inappropriate sites and keeps track of browsing history. There is free software, such as FreeShield, or software you can buy to filter out adult content sites. Make sure to use complex passwords and change them regularly.

4. Watch when your child is using the Internet. If they are trying to hide something, it is usually fairly obvious. They will minimize or close windows quickly when you walk by or be constantly looking around.

5. Keep up with the technology. The technology of the Internet is constantly changing, so know what there is that your child may be doing on the Internet and the risks associated with that activity.

6. Talk to your children and set boundaries. This can often solve any problem before it happens.

Tips & Warnings

• Let children know what they shouldn't share with others online, like address, phone number and other personal information.

• Don't try to sneak around and spy on your children. Be upfront and let them know what you are doing. This will help keep trust and may help to solve problems down the road.