Don't be Overwhelmed...Find Help Online

It is not uncommon for parents to feel like they do not know enough about the computer or the Internet to be able to exercise authority over its use. These are some online resources for parents to learn about Internet Safety and the computer.

Online Courses

CyberAngels: One component of this site is the online interactive tutorials and classes (on topics such as dangers to children, chat rooms, and protection measures). Classes are free to the public, and held in an easy to access private chat room.

Ewing, New Jersey SeniorNet: This site is concerned with teaching basic points about computers and operating systems, including system configuration and tweaks, file management, computer maintenance, and safety. There is a separate section covering Internet safety with particular attention to avoiding viruses, worms, Trojan horses, spyware, and other Web hazards.

WiredSafety: The Wired-Ed program offers over 50 classes to both members of WiredSafety and to the general public. These classes range from welcoming the new WiredSafety member into the organization to teaching folks about viruses and firewalls to helping your children surf safely. Parents can learn about risks their children face online and how to minimize those risks.

GetNetWise: This site has video tutorials that explain how to configure the browser or operating system for security, privacy, and cookies, as well as spam tutorials and tutorials on reporting spam.

WebWise: Learn how to use the Internet Step by Step.

Childnet: Childnet has produced a number of resources for parents including the world's first interactive safety resource for parents and a special audio seminar.

WebWiseKids: This parent course is divided into five lessons - Internet Safety, the World Wide Web, Email, Chat and Instant Messaging, and Personal Web Sites. The lessons are stand alone and can be taken in any order.

BeSafeOnline: While not a course, this site explains many of the technologies used today, including the World Wide Web, Personal Webpages, Email, Chat, Instant Messaging, Newsgroups, File-Sharing, Shopping Online, Filtering Software, Computer Viruses, and Bullying Online.

Internet101: Internet 101 was created for those who want to know just the basics. This guide will provide you with enough knowledge to have fun on the Internet, yet will not bore you with too many details.

BeWebAware: The Internet is fantastic, but there are risks. Your involvement is essential. This site provides the tools you need to help keep your kids safe online. This site includes information on various technologies and safety tips for your child by ages from 2 - 17 years of age.

2Learn: These are tutorials to help Kindergarten to 3rd grade students learn the basics of computer use, like using a mouse.

BBC 10 Hour Online Course for Beginners: Learn how to use the Internet Step by Step

Technology Solutions

NetSafe: You can download the Hector Safety Button created by the NetSafe Programme of New Zealand to help keep children safe online. If a child is upset or worried about an image that comes up on the screen, they simply click on Hector. He immediately covers the screen with a beautiful underwater scene, and a reassuring message that the child has done the right thing, and now can go and get adult help.

Disney FamilyFun: 5 FamilyFun strategies for keeping kids safe online...that can go a long way toward making your kids' Internet experiences more like Barney and less like Baywatch or worse. This site explains how the technology solutions work (or don't)...and lets you decide for yourself what's right for your family.

GetNetWise: There are many tools available that parents can employ to guide their children to safe and rewarding online experiences. There are also many different types of tools that may fit your family's needs and values...You can enter your own search terms in the GetNetWise Tools for Families database. The database allows you to tailor your search with many variables such as specific operating systems (e.g. mac, windows, linux), types of content (e.g. sexually explicit, hate, violent), and type of technology (e.g. Web, instant messaging, peer-to-peer).

FilterReview: This site allows you to select what features you are looking for in a safety solution, and then presents you with options that closely match your criteria. It also provides a way to give your opinion and receive feedback from other individuals on the numerous choices available.

Quotes and descriptions taken directly from websites are indicated by italics.