Learning to Interact

Without the Internet as a sort of babysitter and educator, we grew up without the constant interaction of the World Wide Web, and we learned how to interact with people on a face-to-face basis. But with the change in the teenage environment, it's time to reconsider parenting tactics and start learning how to approach this new landscape of parenting teenagers online.

The Internet's Anonymity

One of the major drawbacks of the Internet is the anonymity. Since you can't truly be certain who you are speaking to, it can add to the potential for scary things to happen. Each day, it seems there is a new story about some teen who was lured into the home of an Internet predator, but by being clear about the rules of the Internet, you can protect your child.

1. Establish clear guidelines about information than can and cannot be shared online.

2. Create e-mail accounts that provide very little information about your teen.

3. Monitor your teen's online activity.

4. Create a computer space that's accessible and visible.

As a parent, you can look to the Internet for helpful information if you're concerned about your teen and his or her behavior. This type of information will assist you in building a stronger, more trusting relatioship with your child.

The Internet's Content

Because anyone can create websites about anything on the Internet, it's simple for a teen to access adult-rated websites, along with other harmful sites. To help prevent this from happening on your home computer, you need to make sure you're putting filters on the Internet as well as monitoring your child's use with specially designed programs for parents.

Your teen might still be able to access these sites from other locations, but your rules and guidance will help him or her remember what's right and what's wrong.

Online Resources for Parents

Though the Internet is a wide landscape of possible problems for teens, it can also provide a wide array of resources for parenting teenagers online. You can talk with other parents about their concerns as well as share stories about raising a teen in today's technology-driven world. With forums, articles, and parenting experts, raising your teen will be an easier process and a productive experience!