OLP_Andy

The best way to protect your child is to teach them to protect themselves. You cannot watch over your child every minute that they are using the internet, because it is such a pervasive part of modern life. It is therefore essential that you give them the tools that they require to navigate in safety and with a sense of responsibility.
In order to help you to do this we have compiled a set of guidelines for separate age groups, so that you can make the right choices and give your child the power they require.

Up to age 10

1. The number of children in this age group using the internet is growing rapidly, and they are potentially the most at risk. We therefore recommend that you supervise your child while they are online, up to the age of 10.
2. Set clear rules for their internet use. Define websites that they can visit, and type them directly into the address bar. Often the most inappropriate websites will come about from ‘link surfing’, that is traversing the internet by following unknown external links in a website. Although this can often lead to the most relevant content, it can also very quickly lead to content that is inappropriate or offensive.
3. Make it very clear that your child should not share personal details (surname, address, school, friends, phone number, passwords) with people they meet online.
4. Lead by example – you are the prime role model for your child. You should also follow the above guidelines when you are using the internet in the presence of your child.

Ages 11 to 14

1. Children of this age will inevitably start to explore the internet, and it will often not be possible to supervise them 100% of the time. However, loose supervision should be practiced, to help ensure that they are not exposed to inappropriate content.
2. Keep computers in an open area where you can easily supervise your child’s internet use.
3. Again, it is essential that your child understands that they should not share personal details with people they meet online. Sites like Facebook, Bebo, Myspace, etc, are excellent tools for social networking, but it is almost inevitable that they will meet people that they don’t know. Understanding how to behave in those circumstances is essential to your child’s welfare online.
4. Set clear rules for internet use.
5. Good communication about their internet use and practices will be of enormous benefit. Encourage them to talk about their experiences online, especially negative experiences and times that they have felt uncomfortable or threatened.

• Email Blog Entry