Access to online social networking sites

MIAinVA · Oct 8th, 2009, 10:11 AM

Do your kids have access to online social networking sites like facebook, twitter, myspace, etc?
Is it a better idea to block their access or give them access but keep monitoring it (while letting them know they're being monitored)?
At what age is it appropriate to let them have access?

I especially need opinions from parents living outside Pakistan please.

Mamaof3 · Oct 8th, 2009, 11:22 AM

We live in USA and my boyz are still too young for this (age 8, 7 and 5). But once they get a bit older (i dont know - 12?) I will let them have access to a degree. They are growing up with computers and all have internet accounts and they are aware that we have their passwords and that we check history. We also have the computer in the family room only, where I can see the screen and watch what they're doing. That policy is going to remain in effect. If theres too much hanky-panky going on - whether its facebook or anything else - then those program(s) will be blocked. The internet is "out in public". I'd not let them roam through a shopping mall on their own so I treat the internet the same way. Many dangers out there and they do understand that I'm keeping them safe.

MIAinVA · Oct 8th, 2009, 04:39 PM

I'm in USA too and I'm planning to do the same thing for my kids (have only a 3 yr old daughter so far). I'm trying to find out how can this be practically handled.... I don't mind the kids using the computer for offline usage....... games, educational software, etc...... I'm just so uncomfortable with them using the Internet, especially those social networking websites.

Has anyone completely blocked internet access for their kids?

somegroovychick · Oct 8th, 2009, 05:58 PM

^ i don't think thats possible- i mean, yes, in your own home you can choose not to get internet service, but for sure they'll have access at school and friend's homes. there's a lot of good things about the internet too that your kids could benefit from- there's tons of religious education online and help for school projects and fun/safe gaming sites. like mama said, keep the computer in an open area so nothing is hidden and teach your kids about internet safety just as you'd teach them to look both ways before crossing the street.