Tappahannock Elementary School

Set limits on how long your child is able to use the computer and access the internet.
Keep the computer in a central location such as the living room, family room, or kitchen instead of a bedroom or place that is not easily monitored.
Consider sharing an email account with your child that is password protected, but that both of you can use.
Check the computer’s search history to monitor the websites your children have been viewing.
Closely monitor your children’s access to instant messaging programs and chat rooms. This is where a lot of cyber-bullying occurs and where predators gain access to children.
Remind your children to NEVER give out personal information, post their pictures online, or communicate with people they do not know.
Talk to your children about the importance of reporting inappropriate requests, messages, or emails to an adult. Encourage your children to print out the information and not just delete or ignore it.
Familiarize yourself with popular websites your children might be interested in such as myspace, youtube, facebook, etc. Talk to other parents about these sites as well as other popular sites they have heard about.
Ask your internet provider how to place a filter on your internet and limit your children’s access to certain websites.
Consider making a family contract regarding internet use. The contract should include length of time allowed online, what websites are acceptable, rules about sending pictures and personal information, and other safety rules that you feel are important.