Keeping our kids safe online is no easy task!
I’ve learned a hard lesson or two about the online dangers that are easily at the touch of the keyboard.
Hear me on this. You do not have to have bad kids to be thinking about internet safety!
I have two awesome kids.
Both of my boys know what we approve of and what we don’t.
But, we allow them to go online.
They’re allowed to use You Tube.
My oldest has a Facebook.
Although they may not intentionally participate in the garbage that’s out there, it’s not hard for them to come across it.
It’s a fine line, and I’m learning that it’s hard to balance allowing them the use of technology and keeping them safe at the same time.
What steps do you take for internet safety?
Here are a few things that I think are great!
God Tube is a family friendly alternative to You Tube. The kids love to watch funny videos. The problem with You Tube is that while they are watching something I allow, the sidebar is filled with stuff I don’t. I’ve been trying to find some sort of alternative and God Tube is definitely a keeper. Just look at this video. HILARIOUS!
Pregnant and I Know It (Funny Music Video!) from keephopealive on GodTube.
AOL Kids is wonderful. The kids can browse funny pictures and videos and the search box will only return safe results. Yes, please.
K9 Web Protection is a FREE internet filter that allows parental control, password protection, time settings, and much more. It’s a must have!
Safe Search for Kids powered by Google. A child friendly search engine.
The world serves our kids garbage on a silver platter and we have to make an effort to protect them!
No one else is going to do it.
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A harsh reality is that 70% of kids hide what they do online according to a recent McAffee study 6/12.
Parents need to be checking in to make sure their kids are behaving appropriately and safely online. ScreenRetriever provides parents complete visibility of all of their children’s computer activity with both LiveView and Replay. Kids know it’s being used so that communication is encouraged and trust is not sacrificed. A free trial is available at http://www.screenretriever.com.
Also, check out this Teen Life article on websites that kids are visiting: http://blog.teenlife.com/2012/08/the-10-most-horrific-types-of-websites-kids-are-browsing-online/
Twitter: themommymess
says:
I will check this out! THanks.
I was allowing my granddaughter (4) to watch Bernstein Bear books and all of a sudden I heard a word that shocked me. In checking it out found out that someone has put other words to the stories. It made me sad and realize I need to be diligent in knowing what is good. Thank you for this God Tube and other suggestions.
Pamela recently posted..Sheltering with Humura
Twitter: themommymess
says:
Isn’t that a shame. I love Berenstien Bears, too!
So timely, Adrienne! I just did a post called, “Disappointed” about this very thing. It is awful out there! I’m exhausted trying to protect my teen right now. Thanks for the websites!
AnnMarie recently posted..Life is Getting in the Way
Twitter: themommymess
says:
Hey girl, it is disheartening. I’ve learned a couple tough lessons about the freedom my kids are allowed. Even though their great kids, there’s just so much evil out there.
Excellent. I’ve been having the same issue with YouTube. They go to places that are OK, but the sidebar is filled with filth! I can’t stand it. Love your alternatives.
Missy | The Literal Mom recently posted..Brown Rice Bonanza
Twitter: themommymess
says:
It’s frustrating, isn’t it? I’m not sure what the solution is. I don’t want them to not be able to use the internet. They’re great kids and I can trust them, I just can’t trust the rest of the world. Sigh…
Adrienne recently posted..#BTSBash Blog Event and Mega #Giveaway!
Fortunately, my kids aren’t to this stage yet, but I know it’s coming and it freaks me out! Great tips thanks!
Erin recently posted..I’m Still Here
Twitter: themommymess
says:
It’s no fun, Erin.