Practical Tips for Keeping Kids Safe Online
The Idea Corner
Today ’ s parents have a big responsibility to keep their kids safe in a digital world . It ’ s far too easy for kids to fall victim to illicit material , online predators , and ruthless cyber bullies . Plus , easy access to social media can foster narcissistic values , social isolation , and a lack of privacy .
Now of course , the Internet is a very useful tool , and it gives today ’ s kids opportunities past generations didn ’ t have access to . But , like any tool , it has to be respected and used properly for maximum benefit and minimum risk . In fact , the Internet could be likened to a “ nail gun ”, it ’ s a tool with many benefits , but a tool that can be very dangerous in inexperienced hands .
Check out this sobering statistic : “ One out of every five kids gets sexual solicitations online . Strangers , predators , and cyber-bullies all target children , and their work is simplified when screen names reveal age , gender , or hometown . If posts aren ' t marked as private , personal information can be displayed to an unrestricted audience of readers .” – www . scholastic . com
Fortunately , many schools today are teaching Internet safety , including how to guard privacy . But what are some simple things that we can do at home to make sure our kids are safe online ?
Be Online Savvy . Many parents don ’ t realize just how easy it is for their children to stumble upon inappropriate and dangerous material . Or , how easily kids can converse with strangers via online video games , apps , and social media .
Educate for Prevention . Thank goodness schools are helping with this , but parents are vital in educating their children on the dangers of using the Internet , keeping their information private while online , the value of a good reputation , and how one wrong post can wipe it out . Also , educate kids on the finality of posting pictures and their words online , constantly remind kids that once something is posted , it is out of their control , and it ’ s never coming back to them .
Knowledge is Power . Know what your kids are up to , check the history , and ask them who they are conversing with . Set your security settings and establish a code of conduct you find acceptable for your kids . For more tips check out www . SafeKids . com
Today ’ s kids are blessed to grow up with online access , so when parents and educators keep kids informed , they can avoid all the potential dangers and use the Internet to thrive .
Easy Ways to Save on Spring Travel !
If you want to head on a vacation this spring user these easy tips to stretch your dollar .
1 . Be flexible . Adjusting your schedule by even a day or two can make a huge difference in airfares . According to a study done by www . cheapair . com the “ sweet spot ” for booking air travel is about 3 weeks to 4 months in advance . Also , they note that Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually the least expensive days to fly . 2 . Don ’ t pay full price for hotels . Actually , there are really affordable ways to get hotels , such as www . hotwire . com , you just don ’ t know what you ’ re getting before you buy . So if that ’ s not your thing , check into websites like www . airbnb . com 3 . Skip the restaurants . Booking a place with a small kitchen can save you a bundle on your travels . Plus , it can be a lot healthier , and you can save your money for some special meals out .
Thank You !
Thanks to YOU the word is spreading ! Thanks to all of my wonderful clients who graciously refer me to their friends , family , and neighbors ! My business runs on the positive comments and referrals from people just like you . I couldn ’ t do this without you ! A special thanks to all these fine folks who referred me last month … Bruce and Marlene Sinclair , Conrad Dion , Jackie Thomson , Lesley McNeish , Michael Poynton , Rita and Steve Semerek , Valvia White
Thanks for All the Kind Words !
“ We are very happy with the restoration of our bathroom floor , that looks better than when it was installed . The technician was professional and protected all furniture , floors , etc . We would definitely use this company again . The cost of the work was exactly what the quote was .”
- Roger Barker
© 2016 Piranha Marketing , Inc .