Most children now chat daily online or via their mobile phones. They are connecting to a huge community of other children all over the world. Some are shy "in real life" but socialise with confidence online; others find support from people of their own age on relationship issues, or problems at home.
Sometimes the online world, just like the real world, can introduce problems, such as bullying or arguments. Going online is great fun, but there are also a few people who use the Internet for offensive or illegal purposes. Children must be made aware of both the good things and the dangers.
To keep children safe, your supervision as a parent must cover the family computer. Just as you decide which TV programs are suitable, you need to do the same for the websites and chatrooms your children visit.
Remind children that online friends are still strangers. Reminding them of the risks will keep them alert(警惕的).
Computer studies are part of schoolwork now, so it's likely that your children may know more than you do. We get left behind when it comes to the interactive areas of websites, like chatrooms and message boards, which are especially strange. The language of chat is strange to many parents, too. Chatters love to use abbreviations(缩写)such as atb— all the best, bfn—bye for now, cul8er—see you later, gr8— great, idk—I don't know, kit— keep in touch, paw—parents are watching, lol—laugh out loud, xlnt—excellent! It seems like another language, and it is!
