Some Guidance for Parents in the Internet Age

As parents, many of us have a love-worry relationship with the Internet where our kids are concerned. We love how the Web opens the world to them, but worry that the bad elements of such a big world will find them all too easily.

A Common Sense Media survey last month found parents' concerns about TV pale in comparison with the Internet. But we are conflicted:

• 91 percent of parents say they like that their kids can explore music, friendships and other passions on the Internet

• 77 percent think it is a valuable educational tool for their kids, but...

• 80 percent of parents also worry their children will be approached by sexual predators on the Internet

Kids are also concerned about getting harassed online, but most are very comfortable on the Internet and think the chance to socialize with friends online is worth any risk posed by putting private information on the Internet, according to this USA Today article.

Here's one of the most interesting ironies uncovered: Almost all the parents polled (95 percent) said they trust their kids to tell them what they're doing on the Internet. But 88 percent say truly knowing where their kids are going online is more important than respecting their privacy.

To help parents and kids travel this fast-changing terrain, Common Sense Media is launching an educational campaign on staying safe on the Internet. The media group also posted a new guide today for parents on "Keeping Your Kids Internet Safe and Smart" here.

Check it out and let me know what you think.