I didn’t grow up around computers. In fact, I remember getting my very first computer at the end of my high school years, in preparation for college. My son, along with millions of other children, will grow up in an era that knows nothing but computers. I wouldn’t be surprised if my son ended up with his own in a few years. More and more companies are developing computer, internet-based programs for children because they know that children use the internet for a variety of activities including homework, recreation, and socializing.
Last fall, I featured Marian Merritt, Internet safety advocate for Symantec (makers of Norton security software) and she presented a wealth of information on how to keep children safe online. Norton has developed a new online service to help parents connect to kids’ online lives. Here are some key features of Norton Online Family from the site:
Simple, One-Time Set Up: Create an account online and customize each family member’s profile based on age and maturity level.
Easy to Use and Access: Check a child’s activity or modify a child’s profile, preferences, or time allotment anytime and anywhere using any Internet-connected device.
Clear Reporting: All activities are reported in chronological order and only show the Web sites a child intended to visit – eliminating all the extra URLs, like ads, from Web sites.
Helpful Search Insight: Easily view what words and phrases a child uses to search and where those searches lead online.
Convenient Web Site Control: Control the Web content that flows into the home by prohibiting more than 40 topic categories.
Secured Personal Information: Track, report and prevent personal information that a child may purposely or accidentally try to send via e-mail, IM or social networking site.
Access to Social Network Information: Monitor activity on social networks like Facebook and MySpace with the ability to see how kids represent themselves, when they login and how often.
Real-time Messaging: Built-in messaging allows parents to have real-time discussions with children about activities and better understand their intentions when visiting a Web site.
True Transparency: Children are able to view the “house rules” they established with parents at any time and are notified when Norton Online Family is active, so there is no “stealth” mode.
Custom Alerts: Parents can customize e-mail alerts to address urgent events so they know immediately when a child has reached a time limit or visited a blocked site, etc.
Useful Time Management: An easy-to-use time management feature that – if parents find it necessary – gives each child a “curfew” that will limit computer usage.
Norton and Mom Central have teame dup to give you a sneak preview of Norton Onilne Family. Just head on over to the site to sign up (it’s free).
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