Protecting Your Child

A new CDC resource for educators and parents offers the following strategies:

1.Talk to your child. Parents ask their children where they are going and who they are going with whenever they leave the house. They should take the same approach when their children go on the Internet—where are they going and who are they with?

2.Develop rules. Together with your child, develop rules about acceptable and safe behaviors for all electronic media.

3.Explore the Internet. Visit the websites your child frequents, and assess the pros and cons. Most websites and on-line activities are beneficial. They help young people learn new information and interact with people who have similar interests.

4.Talk with others. Talk to other parents about how they have discussed technology use with their children.

5.Connect with the school. Parents are encouraged to work with their child’s school and school district to develop a class for parents that educates about school policies on electronic aggression and resources available to parents.

6.Educate yourself. Stay informed about the new devices and websites your child is using. Continually talk with your child and explore the technology yourself.