Today with some many devices and applications allowing internet access for not only internet browsing but also interacting with others, how do we as parents control and mange this without limiting the use of such a powerful tool?

Block Inappropriate Content

One of the best defences is to block or filter content before you see it. A number of software companies provide applications (need to purchase)that allows parental control of internet usage.

Assuming you have Microsoft Windows Visa or Microsoft Windows 7:  you can help kids be safer online by setting limits on their computers.

• Set time limits, this prevents kids from loggin on during specific hours
• Prevent them from plying games you don't want them to play
• Keep kids from running specific programs

To watch a video, see ‌ Video: Using Parental Controls.

For more information, visit:
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/products/features/parental-controls

To turn on parental control:
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/Set-up-Parental-Controls

Increase Security and Privacy

In addition to blocking content, also block potentially harmful sites and content.

• Use antivirus and antispyware software
• Create different user accounts, some with full access, some with limited access.
• Adjust Web browsing security - by allowing you to assign security levels to websites

Monitor Kids Online Activity

By reviewing the History list in Internet Explorer, you can see all the places your children visited online. To view your Internet History, click the History button on the browser toolbar.

Windows Live Family Safety and the parental controls in Windows 7 and Windows Vista can also help you monitor where your kids go online.

Source: [Microsoft]

Educate Kids

Inappropriate content is everywhere – TV, movies, music, games and surely the internet is full of it. Educate your kids in the potential threats on internet as this is an unavoidable platform.