Computers are rapidly invading homes across the globe. Work, education, curiosity and recreation all drive computer usage among young and old alike. Teenagers, who understand the internet as a resource and not a necessity, should respect the power behind it. Parents, this task of knowledge falls on you. Before children reach the teen years, monitor their computer usage closely. Implement parental computer controls and reward a growing teen with more freedom. However, earning this freedom cements its implications.
Here are a few ideas about monitoring computer usage for teens.
Do not deny your teenage son or daughter access to social networking sites. Instead, explain their dangers and monitor them closely. Help them set up their account and discuss why you need to know their password.
As they show more responsibility, check on them less often or give them access to their own laptop. However, require them to leave it in a neutral area while they are sleeping so that you access it at any time and to discourage them from being on the internet while you are asleep.
Discuss with them why these internet safety rules are for their own good. Tell them openly that you respect and love them, thus, you want to keep them safe. Above all, listen to your teen. They will tell and show you when they are responsible enough to navigate the internet on their own.
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