As a parent, I also worry about my children being exposed to things their young eyes should not be seeing. Unfortunately in today's society, this is happening far too often. Our children are constantly in danger of being bombarded with lurid images on television, in movies and through the Internet.
Parents often tell me that they don't feel that they have enough tools to shield their children from this exposure, particularly when it comes to the vast expanse of the Internet.
Fortunately, there are two new aids that I think parents will find extremely helpful -- the V-Chip and the new GetNetWise web site. I created this web page to help provide more information about these important tools.
The V-Chip will help parents block out objectionable material on their televisions. The new GetNetWise web site is an outstanding resource for parents providing information about everything from Internet filters to safe search engines for kids. It's a comprehensive site designed to help families have a safe, educational, and entertaining online experience.
I hope you find this page helpful!
Safe Surfing!
GetNetWise puts a wide array of resources -- blocking and filtering software, safety tips for parents, links to law enforcement groups, and guides to child-friendly sites -- just "one click away" for almost every American household connected to the Internet.
Tips for Parents
The following sites have great information to get you started:
- Families Connect
- Cyberangels
- U.S. Department of Education
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Sesame Workshop
The V-Chip helps parents filter out television shows they don't want their children to watch. Using TV ratings, parents can figure out which programs are inappropriate for a certain child's age or unsuitable because of sex, violence or adult language and then use the V-Chip to block these programs out. The V-Chip is already built into new TV sets being sold today. Click the V-Chip image for more information.
Many families have found that agreeing to a set of online "rules of the road" goes a long way toward helping families have a more positive Internet experience.
One approach is to have a family policy discussion or to sign a Family Contract. Click the contract image for a sample that you can print and use.
Here are some other good examples of family contracts: