Technology has become a part of our everyday life and we cannot avoid it. The Internet has changed the way we interact, shop, socialize and communicate. This has also changed the way our children interact with the others. They have this vast world out there from where they can get in-depth knowledge from all across the world. Yet with all these easy access to information and entertainment, the internet also offers new risks.
The children at some point in their young lives will be exposed to Cyber bullying, exposure to inappropriate material, online predators etc. We as adults (educators, parents, siblings, relatives) should try our best to protect our young wards and also learn to recognize the warning signs.

Here are some rules aimed at younger children, pre-teens & teenagers for online use which vary by age, maturity of the child and family values

1. Do not give out personal information such as your address, telephone number, parents’ work address/telephone number without your parents’ permission.
2. You should tell your parents right away if you come across something that makes you feel uncomfortable.
3. You should never agree to get together with someone you “met” online. Remember that not everyone online is who they say they are.
4. Talk with your parents about posting pictures or videos of yourself or others online and not post any pictures your parents consider to be inappropriate. Think carefully before sharing pictures and videos of yourself or others online, most of the pictures can be seen by several people who may download your images to use in unwanted sites.
5. Do not respond to any messages that are mean or in any way make you feel uncomfortable. Tell your parents right away. If you feel you are being bullied, tell your parents or teachers right away. Remember, it is not your fault.
6. Talk with your parents so that you can set up rules for going online and using a mobile phone. You will not access other areas or break these rules without their permission.
7. Do not give out your passwords to anyone (even your best friends) other than your parents.
8. Check with your parents before downloading or installing software or doing anything that could possibly hurt your computer or mobile device or jeopardize your family’s privacy.
9. Be a responsible and good online citizen and not do anything that hurts other people or is against the law.
10. Try not being in the social media sites until you are over the age limit. Register in social media sites only if your parents approve. Keep your privacy settings as high as possible.