Some people will continue to find new ways to use the Internet to take advantage of unsavvy users, such as children, through the use of inappropriate content, advertising, one-click buying, child predators, data collectors, computer viruses, etc. The following websites and web browsers can help children use the Web safely.
Websites for Online Safety
You can use the following websites to help your children prepare for the potential dangers they may encounter while using the Web.
- Netsmartz Kids is devoted to online safety. The children's website is full of fun games and activities to help kids develop their "Net Smartz." Kids can join Club UYN where every member knows how to "Use Your Netsmartz." The club engages kids in more games and activities to help them learn about staying safe on and offline. Kids can download and print the club membership card with Netsmartz reminders, as well as the Netsmartz Scribblez activity book.
- BrainPOP, Jr., offers a free animated movie about Internet Safety. The regular BrainPOP.com offers free animated movies on Cyberbullying, Digital Etiquette, and Blogs, as well as free trial access to check out other movies, including Online Safety, Social Networking, and Computer Viruses.
- Test your skills: Try the Safekids.org Online Safety Quiz.
Child Browsers and Website Communities for Online Safety
Child browsers and browser add-ons with parental control and management tools may allow children to safely browse the Internet without the worry of encountering inappropriate content or other dangers. This may also protect your automatic purchasing settings and saved financial information.
- The TUKI Browser for Kids, offered by The Children's Network, is available at Tuki.com. The TUKI browser provides parental controls, an Internet filter, and an educational environment for kids. TUKI limits users to a pre-approved list of websites.
- Club TUKI, a children's website community, encourages kids to stay within a set of approved websites. You can achieve a similar effect by creating your own homeschool blog website, wiki for kids, or Pinterest board.
Children use the Internet at increasingly young ages. For this reason, it's important to get them started early on learning to use the Web wisely and safely. Protection and preparation in the forms of parental controls, safe practices, and knowledge of potential dangers all help children enjoy the Internet as a fun learning environment.
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Sara McGrath - Sara is a veteran homeschool mom of three, Usborne consultant, and the author of Unschooling: A Lifestyle of Learning.
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