|
|
 |
What Internet Rules Should I Have for My Kids?
Being the mom of a teenager, I know that the dangers of the internet are a concern to many parents. Worries about MySpace, YouTube, online bullying, and pornography are valid.
Our children are gifts from God. The Bible says they're a "heritage from the Lord" (Psalm 27:3). He's entrusted us to raise them—not to let them be unsupervised for hours at a time. God instructs parents in Deuteronomy 6:6-7, "These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up" (NIV).
Setting Rules
Whether they show it or not, kids need and want boundaries. Have a family meeting and make clear what your family rules are for computer use. Also, make clear what the consequences are if rules are broken. Kids usually respect this kind of fairness.
Here are some rules friends of mine have set up for their children:
- Limit computer time to an agreed amount
- Finish homework, music practice, and chores first
- Computer must be in an open space
- Only pre-approved sites can be visited—no web surfing
- History can't be deleted
- MySpace accounts must be set to "private" so that only pre-approved friends can enter.
- Negative talk on the computer concerning other kids, school, family, etc. isn't allowed.
If these rules are given out of love and concern, our kids will feel loved and cared for.
______________________________
|
|
