Child Safety: Internet Safety for Online Homeschoolers

The internet is a wonderful tool, making resources readily available to a larger number of people than ever imagined, making communication with people all over the world an easy task, and making online homeschooling a viable option for home education. The World Wide Web, like many great resources, is open to abuse and it is important to instruct our children in proper use of the internet for their benefit and safety.

According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, "The single most important thing to promote [internet] safety - talk to kids about the rewards and risks of internet use." Open communication with your child is a great way to keep them safe and aware when they are online. As a parent, what can you say to your child?

First of all, be careful when you choose your search engines. You may be surprised to find out that there are some that are designed especially for kids and others that have child-safety options. Secondly, instruct your child to tell you or another adult present as soon as he or she comes across anything online that creates discomfort or unease. These sites can be documented and blocked, ensuring that they will not be visited again. There is software available that helps filter inappropriate web content. Thirdly, it is important to instruct your child to refrain from disclosing any personal information when chatting online or posting on a blog. There are people online that specifically target young children, requesting this information, so beware! Finally, make searching the internet a group effort whenever possible. Helping your child search the web can be beneficial for the both of you.

Learning about internet safety so you can best protect your child does not stop here. There are great resources available online. For example, NetSmartz offers information on how to be safe on the internet. This tool is great for children and parents alike. CyberTipline is a place to report inappropriate online solicitation or unsuitable content specifically geared towards children. There is also a site, Don't Believe the Type, which instructs you and your child on how to avoid dangerous situations on the web and how to read warning signs.

The internet is a great tool and can aide in education in many wonderful, blessed ways, so let's be smart about internet safety!