Are Our Children Riding Safely on the Internet Superhighway? |Angela Alexander

“Globe And Computer Mouse” by Master isolated images

Do you remember when there was a public out cry in the 1990’s to protect our children from inappropriate content on TV? Because of this demand, the FCC developed the TV Parental Guidelines. FCC now requires that indecent programming and profane speech on broadcast TV or radio are only allowed between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., when it is unlikely that children are watching television. We were vigilant then in protecting our children, but what about protecting our children from the advancing technology of today?

All types of content is entering the Internet 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from all over the world. There isn’t a time frame on when it’s best for our children to surf the web nor is there a regulatory agency that’s going to protect them. With all the advantages the Internet has to offer such as information, entertainment, global communication, and social networking, it has it’s dark side. Cyberbullying, predators, pornography, and the potential of damaging reputations are just a few of the dangers facing our children as they ride on the superhighway. What can we do to protect them?

EDUCATE YOURSELF -You can’t teach what you don’t know.

Parents and teachers must do their homework in understanding the Internet and all it’s capable of doing. Internet literacy is a non negotiable subject that all must take if we are to protect our children and even ourselves.

Here are some resources that you can begin to explore in order to get an understanding of how to protect our children.

If you have any other resources, please share.

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Common Sense Media provides trustworthy information, education, and independent voice families need to thrive in a world of media and technology.

Connect Safely provides social-media and mobile safety tips for teens and parents.

OnGuardOnline is the federal government’s website to help you be safe, secure and responsible online.

Provide Internet users resources they need to make informed decisions about their family’s use of the Internet.

NetSmartz invites you to learn about the issues surrounding your children’s online lives. Then use the discussion starters to help you begin a dialogue about safety with your children.

Offer tips and advice to families and educators about how to stay safe online

Occurs in February of each year to promote safer and more responsible use of online technology and mobile phones, especially amongst children and young people across the world.