By Lisa K. Schkloven, LCSW-C 

Here’s a riddle, Mom and Dad…

It can “virtually’ take you anywhere in the blink of an eye and provide information in an instant. Its ability to let you invite others into your home is limitless and, no matter how secure your locks or alarm, it’s like having your “windows” wide open.

What is it? It’s the internet, of course! Because of the internet, the “community” of the 21st Century is not confined by geographical constraints. We now live in a virtual community without geographical boundaries. And just as parents have to teach their children about stranger danger and playground safety, parents also have to teach their children about internet safety.

Here are some tips to help your family “surf” the internet safely. First, act proactively in keeping your family safe. Install spy-ware and ad-ware blocking software on your computer. Make sure you have a working firewall and review the settings regularly. Install anti-virus software and update it regularly. Use spam-blocking tools offered by your internet provider. Also, learn to use the computer and how to surf the internet so you can talk intelligently with your child about it.