Kids and computers

It’s always the concern, ‘How do I let my kids get access to the Wide, Wide World, but keep them safe?’

And the best answer hasn’t changed in thousands of years…

As parents be connected and interested in what your children are doing.  If you have a relationship with your kids, they will grow up seeing the behaviors you consider appropriate and you’ll be open to conversations where you’ll be able to discuss the details of their life.

When it comes to computers and the internet, the same rules apply.

But for many people, modern life might limit the natural flow of conversations.  Making it hard to be there when a situation comes up to talk about what’s going on and what is the best way to handle it.

So sometimes you need tools to use as conversation starters.

NetSmartz Teens is meant to be one of those tools.   Originally designed for tweens and teens, it has activities designed for kids as young as 5 years old.

It’s purpose is to educate, engage, and empower kids as they use the internet.  The site uses comics and videos of seven characters to show the consequences of improper use.  Topics range from social networking and cyberbullying to what they bring into offline lives.

The site is bilingual and can be flipped from English to Spanish by simply clicking a link, and it is also loaded with supplemental material you can access and download.  The supplemental stuff includes real-life stories and ‘educational’ activities where you can focus on a particular concern.