Keep your computer in a communal area: Never in a child’s bedroom; it will be easier to monitor their computer usage if you are in the vicinity and gives the opportunity to intervene should any issues arise.
Monitor the computer’s history: Be aware of the websites, social networks and chat rooms your child is visiting and try to get a sense of who they are communicating with.
Learn about the Internet together: Consider internet activities that you can do as a family; allowing you to supervise your child's online activities while promoting safe computer habits.
Keep lines of communication open: Let your child know they can approach you with any concerns they have about using the internet, sensitive content or cyber bullying.
Warn about dangers: Tell your child the truth about the dark side of the internet, but don’t frighten them unnecessarily. Make sure your child knows the boundaries of what is acceptable and what the consequences of internet recklessness could be.
Use a child-friendly search engine and web browsers: Find a search engines that gives the best results. Many allow you to restrict certain results, and you can protect these settings with a password.
Consider implementing parental controls: By going to Tools on your menu bar, selecting Internet Options, choose the Content tab, and click the Enable button under Content Advisor.
Looking into filtering technology: Filtering software can be helpful – but there is no fool proof system that beats parental supervision. There are server-based filtering options offered through your ISP and downloadable applications available online.
Consider creating separate accounts: Most computer operating systems give you the option to create different user accounts for each family member. You can give your child their own account and monitor their amount of access.
Talk to other parents or teachers: Find out their tips for keeping their child safe and perhaps create a directory of appropriate children sites and passing them on to each other.