Internet Safety

Spend time online together to teach your kids appropriate online behavior.

Keep the computer in a common area where you can watch and monitor its use, not in individual bedrooms. Monitor any time spent on smartphones or tablets.

Bookmark child's favorite sites for easy access.

Take your child seriously if he or she reports an uncomfortable online exchange.

Discuss the dangers of interacting with strangers online and remind them that people online don't always tell the truth.

Explain that passwords are there to protect against things like identity theft. They should never share them with anyone, even a boyfriend, girlfriend, or best friend.

Keep your computer's router in your room and disconnect it at night to discourage late-night Internet usage.

Check the history of sites visited on your Internet browser.

Many Internet providers and devices offer parental controls. Visit your provider's website for more information.