PROTECTING YOUR KIDS

ONLINE
TAKE CHARGE
Set some ground rules.
Establish basic guidelines like
when your kids can go online,
what sites they can visit, and
how many texts they can send
a month, so everyone is on
the same page.

MONITOR
Supervise Internet use.
If you can see what your kids
are doing, they’re less likely
to get in trouble.

Research before you buy.
Did you know that handheld
games can connect to the
Internet or that many laptops
have built-in webcams?
Understand what technology
you’re bringing into your home.

Don’t just sit there–
REPORT!
If your kids are dealing with
cyberbullies or potential
predators, report them to the
website, cell phone service,
law enforcement,
or www.cybertipline.com.

Safeguards ≠ Safe Kids.
Installing CIA-level monitoring
software on your kids’
computers does not guarantee
they’ll be safe online.
Technology can’t replace
your time and attention as a
parent or guardian.

Don’t go overboard.
It’s smart to keep an eye on
your kids’ social networking
profiles, but it’s never cool
when you post embarrassing
messages or pictures to
their page.

COMMUNICATE
Talk to your kids;
they’re not as mysterious
as you think.
Your kids might not tell you
everything, but that doesn’t
mean you shouldn’t ask. Get
involved so you’re not the last
to know.

Challenge them to a duel.
If you have kids who like
to play video or computer
games, ask if you can play,
too. When you respect their
interests, they’re more likely
to respect your rules.

Don’t pull the plug.
Taking away your kids’
Internet access because
they’ve done something
wrong doesn’t solve the
problem. Talk to them about
protecting themselves and
respecting others online.

For more resources visit NetSmartz.org
Copyright © 2010-2013 National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. All rights reserved.

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