Internet Safety for Children

The computer should be located in a common/family room, such as kitchen or sitting room, so that children can be observed on-line. Screening /filtering programmes can be installed to limit access to on-line information. For an overview of such programmes please visit:

www.ncte.ie/internetsafety
www.ispai.ie or
www.filterreview.com
It is a good idea for parents to become familiar with computers and the internet, they are many courses available but more often than not it may be as simple as asking your child to show you. Working with your child is also beneficial in that it provides an opportunity to discuss the potential gains and risks associated with internet use.

Internet usage may be monitored by:
The phone bill (logging onto the internet is the same as making a phone call – it has it’s own number, which can be identified)
Browser history gives a list of sites which have been accessed (it is similar to an itemised phone bill)
Useful leaflets include
Be Wise on the Net – Information for Parents and Guardians to help Children Stay Safe on the Internet (produced by the NCTE – www.ncte.ie )
Barnardos Family Guide to the Internet
For more detailed information and guidelines check out the links listed below.
Useful links
www.iab.ie/SafetyTips/Parents
www.safekids.com
www.netnanny.com
www.eircom.com
www.scoilnet.ie
www.ncte.ie/internetsafety
www.saferinternet.org/