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Is your kid a smartphone junky?

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Teenage boy looking at smartphone

The internet is a wonderful tool, but dangers can lurk for children and young adults.

Parents should establish rules and expectations when it comes to their children’s online activities. That includes when the child can be online, for how long and what sites are appropriate.

Here are some rules experts recommend you establish with your children before allowing them unsupervised access:

  • Never give out personal information without your permission.
  • Tell you right away if they encounter something that doesn’t seem right.
  • Never agree to meet someone from online without discussing it with you.
  • Don't share passwords with anyone but you.
  • Check with you before downloading or installing software or doing anything that could harm the computer.
  • Discuss posting photos and what’s appropriate and inappropriate.
  • Follow your guidelines of being a good online citizen and not doing anything that hurts other people or is against the law.
 

SOURCES:

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