I need to educate myself regarding keeping kids "safe" on the internet. I have an 8 year old and a 6 year old. They are rarely on the internet now, but I know that this will change as they grow older. Right now, I'm concerned about them stumbling upon something that they shouldn't see. So, I need to learn about the various internet babysitter stuff. I know that later, I will become more concerned about who they are communicating with over the internet, but right now, they don't do that. Any other parents out there have any suggestions on where to start? I'm not computer savy at all, so any guidance is appreciated.
I think the biggest safety net is to make sure you are there. DD is 9yo and is very computer literate and is on a lot. That being said our computers are in one location and it is rare that she is by herself, generally it is if she is on DisneyXD and I can't stand the sound effects anymore!
I used to be a tech coordinator for a school so I am a computer person and I would never rely on "babysitting" software. The hackers and lowlifes write subversive code faster than the programs can develop filters. The best thing you can do is be present. Talk to your kids about internet safety, never giving their real names or info, etc. DD knows to come to us immediately if she is uncomfortable about something. I had to laugh because she came to me a few weeks ago with big eyes, saying there was something "really bad" on the computer. Fearing the worst, I looked and it was one person calling another stupid!
Monitor the sites they visit, make sure if you sign them up that you chose the settings, most legitimate places have a different interface for younger kids. For example, on Webkinz I have it set so DD can only use and see from other people, a set of phrases, not anything freely written. Most kid centered sites are like this.
Some of the biggest traps are search engines. Just try googling the word "zoo" and you will see what I mean!
In general, if DD is interested in something, I will search for it and then send her a link in her email. She is learning search skills at school but I am not ready for her to search unaided at home.
Educate yourself and you will help your kids. The internet can be a scary place but it can also be wonderful if used and monitored correctly.
