| |
Whether or not a parent should control a child’s computer use is an issue that not
everyone agrees on. Some feel that as parents, controlling PC access and computer
usage is just another parental responsibility. Others feel such parent controls
infringe on a child’s rights. If you’re unsure, take a closer look at these reasons
why parent control of a child’s computer use is so important.
Kids software may
not be suitable
If you’ve ever browsed your local electronics store you know that
kids software is big business. The majority of the kids software packages are either
educational or designed purely for pleasure. But it’s not all suitable for children,
a huge reason why parent control is so crucial. You as a parent have the right (and
an obligation) to not purchase any kids software you deem unsuitable for your children,
so exercise it!
Know what you are purchasing BEFORE you purchase it. Take a few
moments to read the packaging to see what the kids software does. You can also go
online where you can search for and read reviews of the kids software. Only if you
are satisfied should you go ahead and make the purchase.
But what about kids software
that your children stumble across while online? If your children watch television
or listen to the radio, they cannot escape the constant web site marketing that
takes place with every commercial interruption, especially on those stations targeting
children.
Restricting PC access has benefits
The children who know how to get on
the Internet go to these web sites and once there, they’re bombarded with things
to see and do. Much of the activities are geared towards subtly extracting personal
information from your child. While most web site operators have only good intentions
in mind, like future marketing to your child, giving out personal information isn’t
a good habit to get into. A parent can control this situation by outlining and enforcing
rules pertaining to accessing these web sites and computer use in general.
Such
rules that give a parent control over how and when their child uses the computer
should also cover the topic of downloading music, games and kids software onto the
home computer. Downloading kids software from a web site is always risky. You never
know when your child might accidentally download a virus along with the kids software
that could cause a system shutdown!
Another reason why a parent should control a
child’s computer use and PC access is to keep the child safe while chatting. Kids
love to talk to their friends and Internet chat rooms and instant messaging have
become popular modes of communication. However, while online, it’s very difficult
to keep track of everyone your child communicates with. It’s not uncommon for the
person with whom a child is chatting be someone different than who he or she claims
to be.
Predators and scam artists are all over the Internet and only when a parent
controls a child’s computer use and PC access can parents protect against the dangers
that might be lurking. So take control!
|
|
