Internet Safety Tips for Parents

• Limit the amount of time your child spends online
• Use parental filtering software
• Consider where the computer is placed. A computer should be placed where you are mostly (kitchen, family room, living room), not in a bedroom or spare room.
• Review your child's online habits, activities or interests.
• Know your child's login information, their email address, and any usernames. Ask yourself if your child's online identities display or describe too much personal information about who your child is.
• Show and discuss with your child safe search engines.
• Reinforce the idea that not everyone is who they say they are online.
• Know who your child is communicating with online. Discuss with your child that a friend is someone they know in person, not online.
• Tell your child about the permanency of posting pictures and videos online. Advise them that anything sent, posted or displayed online is permanent, and can lead to irreversible and embarrassing consequences.
• Encourage open communication between you and your child. If they come across something or someone that makes them feel uncomfortable explain they should be able to tell you without fear or losing their computer privileges.

 Remember, nothing can replace parental supervision. Stay Safe and enjoy the internet!