Every problem has its solution
Prevention is the best recipe for fighting any problem. In Internet terms, knowledge is more efficient. Whether we like it or not the Internet is and will be a part of our lives so instead of avoiding it we are trying to learn how to use it responsibly. Children today use the Internet from the age of four onwards. Therefore, in the simplest language a child can understand we must test and educate them on every aspect of every danger that is out there so that they can deal with it. At young ages the use of the Internet is limited to games mainly and perhaps sending an e-mail with guidance. From age seven onwards, children are able to use the Internet to research information, chat and play games. The variety of uses also expands with the increase in risks. Consequently, it is important to educate children about the dangers of the Internet and to control their use through various means.
Use maximum user safety control on computers that children use
- Use an online safety program on the computer where children surf.
- Be friendly and explain to them that any time they encounter anything suspicious or when a stranger talks to them to notify a trusted adult immediately.
- Let the children know that they should never open emails from strangers and even when they get an email from someone they know that seems strange to them they should immediately let their parents know.
- Teach your children how to avoid a person who sends them annoying messages and annoys them.
- Let them know that by being responsible when using the internet they are protecting themselves from any harm.
- Never criticize children when they break the rules. Just explain to them why they shouldn't do it and make them understand the consequences of their action.
- Teach kids how to search effectively and how to use safe search engines (like Google safe search for kids).
- Never underestimate children's curiosity. Better to show them what's out there so that their curiosity is appeased than to let them become victims to learn.
- Show them how and where to report something illegal if it comes up in front of them.
It is always best to be clear and realistic about a situation without bullying the children which may deter them from telling you and make them victims in the end. Children today adapt technological advances into their lives with greater ease than the elderly. It is therefore futile to try to prevent the use of a computer and children from using it. The Internet is a part of our lives and it is important that we know how to use it and learn the right way to use it. It is important for children to understand the seriousness of the dangers of the Internet, especially in the issues surrounding child pornography and pedophilia.
See more from his website Ministry of Education and Culture.