It
is important the children understand that the internet is not always a safe
place and not everyone is who they say they are. In this article, the Learning
Assessment and Neurocare Centre offer advice to parents on how to keep children
safe when using the internet.
Do not assume
the internet is safe for children to use
Children today are living in a world surrounded by
technology. Children are actively taught
how to use computers in school at a much younger age as technology advances
develop at such a vast rate. Many
parents feel that children are often more up to date with these developments
than they are and may look to their child for computer assistance. However, it is important that children are
taught the significance of internet safety to ensure correct internet use. As sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and
Blackberry Messenger become more popular, there is the possibility that they
may be at risk of sharing too much personal information.
Tips for
keeping kids safe online
So what can a parent do?
- Talk to your child.
Ask them what sites they like to use, who they are talking to, what
information they are sharing. It is just
as important to know about your child’s online life as it is their offline
life.
- Teach your child what information they should not provide or
post on social networking sites. Tell
them to protect information related to family, friends, do not disclose their
address, full name or phone numbers.
- Encourage them to think carefully about information they may
post online including any pictures and to carefully consider who may view this
information.
- Ensure that your computer has up-to-date anti-virus software. Also explain to your child the importance of
not opening emails from someone you do not know.
- Explain to your child the possibility of online bullying and
advise them of who to speak to if they are worried about this.
- Emphasise the importance of never meeting someone whom
they’ve met through the internet and how your child must also speak to you as a
parent if they ever consider this.
Useful
sources of information on internet safety for children:
About The Learning Assessment and Neurocare Centre
The Learning Assessment and Neurocare Centre was
established in 1993. Over the past 17 years the centre has seen more than
6000 people with these conditions, sees up to 240 new patients annually from
all over the country and overseas, and has about 1600 patients on its active
long-term clinical management list. The centre has developed a local and
also a national reputation for being able to assess children,
adolescents, and adults with suspected neurodevelopmental
difficulties in an experienced and comprehensive way. Whilst it
sees people with the more straightforward problems, it also has a great deal of
expertise in the assessment and management of people with complex difficulties.
