Schlow's Guide to the Internet for Parents and Children/Teens

What is the Internet?

The Internet is an exciting new tool for learning. Thanks to this new technology, children can not only read about a volcano erupting, they can see it happen!

They can “talk” with children in other countries and “visit” great museums and libraries around the world at the touch of a keyboard.

It is a global network of information accessible with a computer and an Internet connection. The information is presented in a variety of ways—with words, pictures, sound, and even video clips. There are thousands of “sites” with educational and recreational information available for everyone to view.

The Internet and the World Wide Web are not regulated and people are free to put any information on the Internet without identifying themselves. This opens the door to some risks. Like the real world, the virtual world contains some sites with material that may not be appropriate for children.

The best way to ensure your child’s safety on the Internet is to be there with them while they are “surfing the Net”. It is important that you as a parent assume responsibility for their computer use, whether it be at home, at school, or at the library. In the same way you supervise your child’s television viewing, watch the amount of time your child spends with the computer.

Suggested Rules for Kids

Always ask your parents’ permission before using your full name, address, telephone number, or school name anywhere on the Internet.

Always tell your parents or other adults you trust if you see something online that is scary or that you don’t understand.

Don’t respond to messages that make you feel uncomfortable or uneasy.

Never give out a credit card number or password online.

Never arrange to meet in person someone you’ve met online unless you discuss it with your parents and an adult goes with you.

Not everything you see or hear on the Internet is true.

Tips for "Webwise" Parents

“Surfing the Net” can be a wonderful family experience. The best way to assure that your child is having an educational and safe experience is to spend time with your child online and help them find Web sites that can help them with their homework, hobbies, and other special interests.

Take time to learn about the Internet and the educational resources it offers.

Learn how to evaluate Internet sites. Schlow offers books, magazines, and brochures with reviews and guides to Web sites.

Explore the Internet with your children. Ask them to share their favorite Web sites.

Talk with your children about what they are seeing and doing on the Internet. This will give you insight into their interests and provide you with an opportunity to share your point of view.

Provide clear guidelines. Make your children aware that there are subjects or areas that you prefer to be off limits and explain why.

Teach your children to be wise consumers on the Internet. Remind them that not everything they see or hear may be true. Some sites may be trying to sell them something.

Teach children “safety” rules for dealing with strangers online, such as never giving out their full name, address or telephone number—the same kinds of things you would tell them if they were going for a walk to the local store or to the movies.

Tell them not to arrange to meet someone online without your permission.

Set YOUR rules for your child’s use of the Internet.

Schlow Library's Internet Policy

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