This information will be very useful for you if you have kids. In nowadays almost everybody use PC and Internet. And do you know what is necessary to explain to your children when they are only on their way to begin using Internet? Here is a some rules you should study before your kids start using Internet:
Your kids probably know more about the Internet than you do.
They will have access to it away from your home PC, so be prepared. Just as with smoking, drugs, and strangers, the earlier you talk to them the better. Also, the more honest you are with them the more they will share with you and in sharing, you will know how to advise them.
Kids are not aware of things that can hurt them. For kids, it is hard to imagine that surfing the Internet is dangerous. The computer games they play have characters that rise after being shot and many “do-overs”. The truth is, the Internet is dangerous but, with proper use,does not have to be. You should know the dangers, the protection, and be able to to convey those things to your kids.
Not all PC problems are caused by peer-to-peer file sharing, or illegal downloads. Yes, those activities will cause a PC to become infected. But, most computers are infected by out of date anti-virus programs, poor Internet security and a lack of an anti-spyware program.
Kids share. Advise your kids not to share PC programs or games. These are vehicles for virus programs and by installing them you will potentially infect your computer. Tell your kids to ask you if they want to try a new game or program. Many games can be rented or you can scan the disk for virus’ before they are installed. Let your kids know you will help them with new things for the computer. Talk to them about software licensing. Programs that are paid for are legal. Sharing software breaks the law. Be an example as well. Don’t install software that you do not have a license for.
Kids want to be part of the group. They want to be able to talk about the same things their peers talk about and not be thought of as weird or nerdy. You can help them to respect the PC at home and to still be able to belong in their peer group if you help them to understand the problems and legal pitfalls of file sharing.
There are safe places to download current music titles for fair prices. Some bands even offer free downloads of some songs. Offer a solution, not just restriction.
Shareware is another way of teaching kids about software downloads at a low cost. Many shareware authors offer their product in a try before you buy system. Some say, if you like it, send me a donation. This process provides quality software for great prices and can be a vehicle for you to allow your kids to express themselves without harm to the family computer.
Teach your kids to clean up behind themselves. Show your child the Internet browser cleanup tool on your computer. Explain to them that this helps to remove Internet junk which slows down the PC. By involving them in this practice, your system stays clean and your kids will realize you trust them on the Internet. After all, any parent that does not teach this to their children is looking to “check up” on them. You want your kids to be able to come to you about their Internet needs.
