Tips for Parents:  Probably the most important thing you can do is to be aware of what your child is doing on the computer. Be as computer savvy as your child; never allow any child to have a computer in their room; use parental control programs. Your child’s privacy comes AFTER their safety.

Become computer savvy. Kids are more technologically advanced than most adults. Educate yourself on terminology and how to navigate a computer. 

DO NOT ALLOW your child to have a computer in their room or other isolated area.
If they utilize laptop computers, set guidelines where they can use it and length of time they may be on the computer. Always keep home computers in family rooms, kitchens or other rooms that everyone spends time.

Be aware of the online activities that your child participates in. The Internet has many positive purpose, however it also makes access to inappropriate sites very easy.

Hang out with your child while on the computer and talk specifically about cyber-bullying. Ask your child if they have ever been cyber-bullied or would they tell you if they had and if they had cyber-bullied someone else. Remember your response to their answers will either buy you more time with them or cut them off completely.

Educate yourself and your child on cyber-stalking, or other illegal or troublesome on-line behavior.

Define for your child the effects of cyber-bullying and that it is unacceptable. Talk with your child to come up with a family plan for responsible choices and consequences for irresponsible internet use.

Inform your child that you will respect their privacy while on the computer, however that their safety is most important and that you will intervene if you feel necessary.

Inquire about filtering and parental control programs to install on your computer. There are great programs, but do not rely on them to be your only protection against cyber-bullying or other predators.