There are several Internet safety websites that provide helpful and useful tips to teach your children to be safe online. Before exploring Internet safety websites, you should first become familiar with words commonly used on-line, you should also have a general idea of the description for these words. This is a list of several commonly used words and phrases, along with a brief description:
Internet– An immense, global network that connects computers via telephone lines and/or fiber networks to storehouses of electronic information. With only a computer, a modem, a telephone line and a service provider, people from all over the world can communicate and share information.
Bulletin Board Systems (BBSs)- Electronic networks of computer that are connected by a central computer setup and operated by a system administrator or operator and are distinguishable from the Internet by their “dial up” accessibility. BBS users link their individual computers to the central BBS computer by a modem which allows them to post messages, read messages left by others, trade information , or hold direct conversations.
Internet Service Provider (ISP)- Examples of ISPs are Erois, Concentric and Netcom. These services offer direct, full access to the Internet at a flat, monthly rate and often provide electronic mail service for their customers. Educational, governmental and nonprofit organizations also provide Internet access to their members.
Electronic Mail (E-Mail)- A function of BBSs, COSs and ISPs which provides for the transmission of messages and files between computers over a communications network similar to mailing a letter via the postal service. E-mail is stored on a server, where it will remain until the addressee retrieves it.
Chat– Real-time text conversation between users in a chat room with no expectation of privacy. All chat conversation is accessible by all individuals in the chat room while the conversation is taking place.
Instant Messages– Private, real-time text conversation between two users in a chat room.
These are just a few of the words and definitions commonly used on the Internet that you may find useful and helpful.
Here are five of the top Internet safety websites that provide effective methods of teaching children about using the Internet safely, however there are several other great sites:
1.CyberSmart– Offers a comprehensive curriculum designed for teachers and parents. It is presented in an easy to use format. Appropriate use of the Internet, property rights, ethics, and website evaluation are some of the content that is covered.
2.GetNetWise– This is a public service brought to you by Internet industry corporations and public interest organizations to help make sure families have a safe and educational online experience. A guide to how and where to report any trouble encountered on the Internet is added to the standard safety guide and parental tools.
3.Kidz Privacy– This is a website created by The Federal Trade Commission for parents and kids. This site is loaded with tips on safety and privacy issues.
4.NetSmartz– The NetSmartz Workshop is an educational resource for children of all ages. Interactive games and activities that entertain while they educate are just one of the features offered by this web site.
5.SafetyEd International– SafetyEd International is a non profit organization. Huge amounts of original materials and resources that will help you and your family to enjoy cyberspace safely are found on this website.
Some other great online safety tools include:
Surf Swell Island (Disney)- This site features Internet safety adventures, in which your child must help Mickey and his friends. This is not only educational, but entertaining.
Parents Guide to Internet Safety– This is a guide published by the FBI. This guide was prepared from actual investigations involving child victims, and is by far one of the best sources of helpful information that is practical and useful to help parents keep their children safe online.