How to Translate IM Slang
If you have teens, chances are you need to translate the IM slang your kids use on instant messaging services or when they text message on their cell phones. It is important that you understand what that slang means to ensure your child remains safe and sound.
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Instructions
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Use the IM translator at No Slang, a website that literally lets you enter an IM phrase (see Resources below). Click "Translate Slang," and receive a layman's translation. You can filter the translator to exclude "adult" language. However, if you're really trying to find out what your kids are texting and chatting about, you should probably uncheck that box. You can also get a No Slang plugin for your web browser tool bar.
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Look up a definition at Slang Site, an online dictionary of web-related, text, IM and other such slang and made up words in popular use by teens (see Resources below). It is constantly updated to include the most recent lingo. Not only can you look up terms, you can submit new terms for consideration to be added to the dictionary.
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Sign up for Net Lingo's newsletter (see Resources below). Net Lingo is another online dictionary of online jargon. In addition to a dictionary to help you translate IM slang, the site includes helpful resources such as "The Top 50 Internet Acronyms Parents Need to Know" as well as a newsletter signup to receive news on the ever-evolving new Internet terms.
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Get smart about cyber security at Stay Safe Online, the online presence of the National Cyber Security Alliance. It provides tools and resources to parents, educators and businesspeople to help them ensure the safety of all Internet users, especially kids. Here you can learn about best practices in cyber security as well as loads of resources for both parents and teens on how to remain safe while online.
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Learn about cyber bullying at the Stop Cyber Bullying website, which is devoted to stopping cyber bullying. It is a powerful website with interactive tools sure to open both parents' and kids' eyes to what cyber bullying is, how prevalent it is, and what part they play in perpetuating the cyber bullying cycle. This site won't help you translate IM slang, but it is still a valuable resource.
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