Social networking Web sites like MySpace and Facebook can be a fun way for teens to keep up with their friends, chat and share music, photos or videos. However, you've probably read about teens posting explicit photos, sharing tales of drunken exploits and other negative behaviors. You've also probably read stories of teens becoming victims of sexual predators because of their online activities. If your child uses one or more of these social networking sites, you may be concerned about exactly what they are doing online, and if they are staying safe. How can you monitor your kid's social networking activities, without violating his trust?
Don't Feel Like a Snoop
For many parents, it can be difficult to find the balance between keeping tabs on their kids and respecting their privacy. They wouldn't dream of reading their child's diary, so they wonder if it's okay to check up on their kids' online activities. First of all, it is important for parents to remind themselves that if your child is posting it on the Web, is isn't private at all, so checking up on your kids' online activities isn't really a breach of privacyl; it is simply good parenting.
Get Your Own Account
The easiest way to keep tabs on your kids' social networking sites is to join those sites yourself. Set up a profile, and "friend" your kids. Make sure you check your child's page often, and keep your eyes open for anything that raises a red flag, whether it's inappropriate activities, photos or the sharing of information that could jeopardize your child's safety.
The most important thing you can do is to keep communication open with your kids. Regularly discuss Internet safety. Remind your kids that there are, unfortunately, dangerous people in cyberspace, and that children must keep their identities private. Also remind your kids that every photo and comment they post could possibly be viewed by family members, colleges and future employers. Deleting something doesn't mean that it's gone, as other people can download it and distribute it later.
By becoming a actively involved in your kids social networking, you can let them have their fun, and keep them safe.
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