

The third problem is that many filtering/censoring products create lists of keywords which, when encountered, prevent you or your child from accessing a site that has that keyword. There is no way that anyone filter list can be appropriate for all families. The second problem with filtering is that every family has a different set of values about what is objectionable and what is acceptable. Since thousands of new sites come onto the Internet each day, keeping up is virtually impossible. The first problem with filtering is that it depends on your constantly downloading lists that prevent your child from visiting certain sites. However, there are far too many problems with filtering and censoring.

There is too much value to be derived from the Internet to shut it off, and your child will be at a tremendous disadvantage when part of their homework assignment is to do research on the Internet.įiltering or censoring is, in our opinion, better than option 1, and until recently, was about your only option. Option number 1 is like throwing the baby out with the bath water. Monitor and Record what your child does online and whom he/she chats with so that you can better guide your child as to what is appropriate and what is inappropriate.Filter or censor what your child can access on the Internet.Disconnect your child from the Internet.In fact, it is estimated that at least 50,000 pedophiles descend on the Internet every day with one goal in mind: to find a child, strike up a relationship, and eventually meet with the child.Īs a parent, you essentially have 3 choices: Some are even looking for a child with whom to have sex. While most of these people who come into your home through the Internet are very nice, some of them are looking for your name, your address, phone number, and other personal information.

The flip side is that, while the world is at your child's fingertips, the world is also allowed into your home. There is no doubting the tremendous benefits the Internet brings to your family. Your child can chat with friends and relatives, meet new people, learn foreign languages, develop new interests. The Internet opens a world of possibilities for your children that were not available when you were a child, or even as recently as a few years ago.įrom a personal computer with an Internet connection, your child has access to almost any encyclopedia, dictionary, book, magazine or newspaper in the world.
