Internet Safety
Myself and Simon still have mixed views on internet safety with Sophie and Kieran. We are still not convinced with Face book and have concerns over MSN. We do not see everything that Sophie and Kieran say on MSN behind their closed bedroom doors. We have concerns also on the slang Sophie and Kieran use on MSN and how this effects their spelling, it is not only the use of sites like MSN but also texting on mobiles. We find that the kids would rather shortcut a word than write out in full.
Sophie is aware of the dangers of internet use and we have also explained why we have our concerns on chat sites. Sophie has over 300 contacts on MSN and we know for sure she does not have 300 friends. Sophie said if she is worried about someone who chats to her or if someone asks too many questions she will put a block on them, and her friends do the same. Sophie said she has over 300 contacts because her friends have introduced her to their friends.
Kieran opened an account on Face book without our consent, when we found out we told him we were not happy and why we were not happy. We explained he should not set up chat sites without our knowledge. Kieran did understand and as since cancelled his Facebook account. Kieran is aware of the dangers of internet use and he is sensible not to set up accounts on sites which ask for our address and telephone number.Kieran has used some great free kids websites to play games on such as www.clubpenguin.com. This is a great fun website and requests parental permission from parents e-mail before they can use the site, which is great because we have given our consent for Kieran to use the site and have looked into the website to see what it is about.
Recently we have set up an account on a chat site called Twitters, we are hoping to use this site when Sophie is skiing so we can communicate with her. You can also introduce friends to follow you and chat to you. We will be learning more about this site over the next few weeks. ,
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The Locke Family - They have agreed to take up the Birmingham Mail's challenge to become more internet savvy, learn more about new technology and to bring their family into the digital age. Parents Julie and Simon will be taking up the challenge along with children Sophie and Keiran.
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Reading your story i can imagine how strong relationship it is between parents and children. That's great and you have all the reasons to be proud of your girls.
Isn't the Penguin thing a bit young for him?
Either way, I am glad to see you have a good relationship with your kids. But there is no reason for them to have computers in their bedroom. There is also no reason for you to not know what they are saying online and who they are talking to. I guarantee at least 1 of those 300 contacts is a slimeball waiting to pounce.
Just remain vigilant. Don’t let your guard down. Too much can happen...
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The Boy likes club penguin, but I have to say it's a complete waste of money! (in my humble opinion) Doing the free version is okay but I wouldn't pay good money to watch a penguin live the life of luxury.
And sorry but I think Ken is right - children/teenagers should not have the ability to surf the net unhindered in their rooms...