A Message to Parents:

Many parents are curious about the Internet and how it might affect their children. The Internet (or Net) is an important research tool which offers a world-wide network of information accessed directly through a computer and communication media (such as a telephone line or cable modem). Libraries can give you and your children an opportunity to explore this exciting new technology. All customers can take an active part in the Information Age through our libraries in New York City. We offer public access terminals that provide customers of all ages access to our catalog, special reference tools, and Internet connections.

Many parents are concerned about letting their children explore or “surf” this new technology because the news media has run so many scary stories about what can be seen and done on the Net. How can you protect your children from dangerous or objectionable material and still encourage them to use this important educational tool?

Here are a few suggestions:

• Be aware of how your kids use the computer. Just as you monitor their reading and school work, pay attention to how and when they use the computer.

• Set family ground rules. Teach children to be cautious about “meeting” other people on the Net. Teach them not to give out any personal information on the computer.

• Set guidelines for how long they can stay online, what information sources they can use, and which topics you want them to avoid.

• Often, children and teenagers are much more comfortable using computers and exploring their possibilities than we adults are. If that’s the case in your family, let the kids show you how to use the computer. Spend time together learning how to use it. It’s fun, and will give you an opportunity to monitor what they’re doing without seeming too intrusive

• Remember that since no single government or private organization is in charge of the Internet, no one controls the accuracy of information posted there or polices the scams and other potential problems that come across the computer screen.

• Use each library systems’ home page for children and teens to find a list of good, popular Internet sites as a starting point for your surfing.

• Families with home computers may want to consider the use of software on their own machines that limits access to what they consider controversial subjects, but understand that blocking software can also limit perfectly good sites as well.

Explore the Internet with your children and give them the guidance that only parents can. And enjoy the exciting “ride” on the Information Superhighway!