Online Protection for Your Children

Kids using the computers.

Image by San Jose Library via Flickr

Today, there are many dangers to our children that are on the Internet. It is imperative that, as parents, you protect your children while they are online. Here is a look at several ways you can implement this safety plan.

Internet filtering and monitoring software should be considered an option. These packages can range from simple to complex and can also include specially design children’s browsers.

Browsers, in general, have several levels of protection that include being able to set certain levels of protection. However, consider using a children’s browser. These browsers are available free and will only allow access to sites that you have selected. These browsers can also filter out pornographic and other dangerous sites. It is also advisable that you keep the computer in a supervised area of your home.

Filtering software can be purchased, usually on a subscription basis, and provides customization features. These features allow parents to provide the proper level of filter that is age-appropriate. Sites can be disallowed or allowed. In addition, this type of software can be remotely accessed.

There are also programs available that will allow you to track the sites that your child visits. Some packages also are able to track actually keystrokes to add a greater level of monitoring.

While these tools are valuable, one of the most important things you can do is to discuss the dangers that are present on the Internet with your children. Help them understand that not everyone on the Internet is a friend or has good intentions. Also, make sure that they never give out any personal information.

Recognizing the Signs of Gaming Addiction

Games like World of Warcraft, first person shooter games, and even Wii and Xbox games can be very fun and exciting! After a long day at work or school, it can be nice to come home and relax in front of the computer and play a few games. But how do you know when playing a few games turns into a problem? The truth is, these types of games are a lot of fun – they are also very addicting. Just like drugs and alcohol, a person can become addicted to online gaming. If you have some gamers in your house, here are the signs for recognizing a gaming addiction.

1. Desire to be alone. If you start to notice that the person playing the game has no desire to be with friends or family, there would be a problem. Often, those addicted to games will want to be alone and refuse to socialize with people in real life situations.

2. Financial crisis. If the gaming addiction is a problem with gambling, you may notice that your loved one is often in a financial crisis. Online gambling can be extremely hard to spot, as a person does all of their gaming online, instead of running off to a casino. However, it’s just as dangerous to gamble online as it is in a casino.

3. No longer enjoys other activities. If your once social child or friend now never wants to go out with other people, this could be a sign of addiction. Gamers want to “conquer” the next level and often become obsessed with the game, caring more about the computer than people.

If you suspect someone in your life is addicted to gaming, there is help. A great place to start is Rehab-international.org. You can find many helpful resources to deal with the gaming addiction in your life.