Children need lots of age appropriate structure and supervision. You wouldn’t let them wander around New York City alone, much less the World Wide Web. Set up clear expectations about what online activities are appropriate. You should write down the family rules for computer use and post them near the computer. These can include limits on “screen time.”
Be very clear about the consequences for breaking the agreed upon rules, such as losing Internet privileges. Don’t be afraid to set these important limits, even if you are parenting older teenagers. They need a strong parent to protect them even when they don’t think they need it.
Your children will benefit from your consistency on upholding the rules as well as the consequences that are attached. They will know if and when you are paying attention to their online activity. Kids are smart, but a good parent is smarter.
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