How can I supervise my child’s Internet use?

Your child should be supervised while using the Internet. While it offers your child access to all sorts of useful information, she can find just as much that isn’t useful or appropriate for her. Instead of letting your kids use general search engines such as Google or Yahoo, try the more child-friendly ones that filter out the junk. You can get access to all sorts of databases through your public library or school website.

Despite your best intentions, it may not be feasible to personally keep watch over your child’s shoulder when he is surfing the Web, especially a teenager. If you’re concerned about what -- or whom -- your older child is accessing on the Internet, it may be time to install a filter on your computer that will keep your child safe and allow you to track what he is viewing. I also advise that you keep the computer out of the privacy of a child’s bedroom so you can be more aware of which sites your child is visiting.

Be clear about the rules and etiquette of using the computer and Web. It may help to post a set of guidelines within sight of the computer so your child is reminded each time they sign on to surf.

From Good Kids, Bad Habits: The RealAge Guide to Raising Healthy Children by Jennifer Trachtenberg.

Take the RealAge Test!

You can't monitor your child's online activities in places you can't be or see, so don't allow the computer in places you can't supervise. Keep your computer in public places you can supervise such as the kitchen, family room, or living room and remove Internet access from the bedroom. You can restrict Web access by calling your carrier and ask how to block Internet access during key times or ages you can't supervise.

What research says: More than 1/4 of teens say they have Internet access in their bedroom where parents cannot monitor and they say they continue to receive texts after lights out.

What parents can do: Make the bedroom Internet free. Remove Internet access from your child's bedroom -- especially after lights out.

Do a "Collect and Drop": Have your kids and teen drop cell phones, keyboards, I-pads or laptops in a designated basket each night and out of the bedroom. Then periodically (but don't tell when!!!) review personal posts, texts, or emails. Just read enough so your teen knows you are checking. Watch your child's reaction when you say: "It's time to check." You can slow down the stealth -- check mode based on past responsibility or as your child matures. Middle school years are when bullying peaks -- so do monitor more frequently during those years.