The internet is a powerful tool for educating you and your child. There are vast resources available for researching topics and finding study aids. There are, however, some precautionary measures that you and your child should take.
There are many ways that you can help provide a safe internet experience for your child. This starts by being involved with your child. Keep the computer in a common area where you can easily watch over your child as they "surf" the web. Ask your child questions concerning the sites that they visit, such as;
...Show interest. You can help your child to easily find their favorite sites by adding them to the Favorites or Bookmarks section of the internet browser.
Do not allow your child to enter private chat rooms, exchange personal information, or photographs. Be aware that posting messages in chat rooms, message boards, forums, and online communities usually provides other users with your email address. Any information posted on the internet should not be considered private. Do not respond to threatening or inappropriate emails or messages. Report them to your Internet Service Provider immediately.
Make sure your child understands that they should never meet someone from the internet. Insist that you be "introduced" to any new people your child meets on the internet.
Create an email account for both of you to share so you can easily monitor your child's email messages. Again, emails are a form of information and should not be considered private. Keep an eye on your credit card and phone bills for any odd charges.
You can also familiarize yourself with third-party software that will enable you to keep a tighter lock on your computer.
Call the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at (800) 843-5678 if you're aware of the transmission, use, or viewing of child pornography online. Contact your local law enforcement agency or the FBI if your child has received child pornography via the Internet.
What is Roane County Schools doing to help keep your child safe?
We have a robust firewall and a powerful hardware and software system in place to help combat predators, viruses, spyware, and hackers. The Technology department has highly skilled technicians to deal with these threats and to help teachers prevent students from accessing inappropriate content on the internet.
Internet Safety Resources for:
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