Children On The internet

A lot of parents ask how they can protect their children while they are on the internet. They are not concerned so much with lost time, but with the children's activities when they are on the net.  In Greece, more than seven in ten children from 10 to 15 years of age use the net and 36 percent of them on a daily basis.  

The fact that minors are vulnerable to various internet dangers is not only due to external factors. Many times it's due to the fact that the country falls short on technology and infrastructure. But also it's due to the manner that adults confront children about their internet use. Basically, Greek parents know less than their kids about using the net, so they can't deal with any problems.

Here are a few guide lines:

Look for clues. The children usually display some warning signs that if parents are watchful, some serious problems might be avoided.

The child spending a very long time in front of the computer could mean that he has discovered a space that provides enthusiasm or danger.

 
If he minimizes the screen each time you approach, it could be an indication that he is involved with inappropriate content.

If he stays online for long periods of time, it could indicate that the child is developing online relations.

Excessive use of other technology i.e. the child suddenly begins scanning photographs, copying discs, cds and DVDs. Check to see if it's just for his amusement or something more serious.

And, if you sit near the child while he's chatting, check for some of the following words. If you see them…start to worry:

POS - Parent Over Shoulder  

POF - Parent on Facebook    

CD9 - Code 9 – Parents are around 

LMIRL - Let's meet in real life  

PAW - Parents are Watching        

First aid:

You or somebody you trust should accompany your children during their first visits on the Internet;  try to inspire confidence in your child, so that he asks your help when he needs it; explain to your child the dangers lurking about on internet; place the computer in a communal area; agree on time and length of use; don't forbid its use unless you give valid reasons; teach your children never to give personal information without your authorization when using e-mail; and, finally, if your time or your knowledge are limited, ask an expert to perform some essential regulations on your computer or add a protection and control program.  

Check out these sites for further help: For windows Vista  http://windows.microsoft.com/el-GR/windows-vista/Use-Parental-Controls-in-Windows-Media-Center

For Windows 7 http://www.technospot.net/blogs/how-to-setup-parental-control-in-windows-7/