Internet Security

I watched the Frontline video on children growing up online and read the sharing the gospel online article.

Some of the most important things I have learned from these are:

• Parents must be involved but not overbearing about concerns online. (Balance)
• Leave the computers in an open area whether they like it or not. If they are ashamed of it, it shouldn't go online.
• You say this is your private space, but guess what no it isn't. Online is not private, it can be more private, but not completely.
• Be who you want to be in real life and allow the internet to show that.
• Make sure that your children know that what is online can have repercussions; it is not a void or vacuum.

What I have learned is a little scary but not really shocking due to how I have grown up. I will be involved as a parent and teacher and make sure that I have a good relationship with them. Also I will follow the recommendations of the church to check them. They will not have computers in private spaces with computers. Also I will limit how long they are allowed to be online.

It is important to know what is going on, but at the same time we have to remember that this world of internet is not going away. We must learn not to be afraid of the internet but to be careful and use it appropriately as a tool that can help us.

Also it is important to help kids turn it all off. Turn off the tv, computer, phone, etc. There is a world off line and we need to help them us it. Make them use it if you have to.

As far as where you can go for info and such, these are good sources, but I also have a security system that when I search something it tells me how safe the sight is considered. Also sights that are .edu or .gov are school or government sights and are safer since they are limited use.

As a teacher things will come up with the internet and we can teach them what we know and keep them aware, but don't think they are stupid about what is out there. They are not naive. We may be. Also we can use the internet and online time or technology in the classroom as a treat and limited tool. It must be correctly done. They have it all the time. They do not need it in the classroom necessarily. Do not feel like you have to make your classroom a tv show or an entertainment.

It comes to the point that if we are involved and helpful with our children and make sure that they maintain balance in all their lives including online it will be okay. The LDS Church use the internet for so much good. We must have moderation and use a wise and guiding spirit throughout our lives. Be aware and teach them and have them teach you if you need to.