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CELL PHONES
A young person who is involved in extra-curricular activities, taking public transit and often away from home is a prime candidate for a cell phone to stay safe and in touch. While cell phones may give parents a feeling of security, research shows that kids just want to have fun. These ultra-hip devices in cool colors are fast becoming a must have accessory for kids as young as 11. Some even feature text messaging and e-mail.
The first protection you need may be for your pocketbook. Pick a cell phone plan that won't break the bank and that suits your child's usage patterns. Many mobile phone service providers offer discounted rates during after school hours when kids are likely to check in with parents. pre paid packages are the best way to limit skyrocketing bills. But cell phone usage is hard to monitor. Kids should not give out their cell phone numbers to strangers. establish guidelines for how you want them to use the device.
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INSTANT MESSAGING
More secure than chatrooms, instant messaging offers the same real-time communications but within a closed circle of friends. And there's no fear of being left out - instant messaging lets you know when your friends are chatting or surfing online. MSN Instant Messaging,Sympatico Messaging and Yahoo Messenger are some of the Instant Messaging sites available for free download.
Despite the added privacy offered with instant messaging, kids may still be exposed to hateful or threatening talk. Of the 56% surveyed who have instant messaging, 1 kid in 10 said they've been threatened while using it. To find software to control or restict access to such services, go to GetNetWise.com Just remember, a software solution isn't foolprrof and doesn't replace parental supervision.
CHATROOMS
The Media Awareness Network study found that a number of respondents had a personal encounter with someone they met in a chatroom that ended badly; the person either wanted or made sexual contact, was violent or used vulgar or sexual language. We do not recommend chatrooms for kids unless the rooms are monitored by adults running the site. Parents should make sure teens who visit chatrooms always use a nickname and don't reveal personal information. And of course, they should never arrange to physically meet someone they've talked to online. Rules for chatrooms should be outlined in your family policy. if your child receives offensive e-mail, forward copies to your ISP.
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PAGERS
Once considered the domain of doctors and drug dealers, pagers have cleaned up their image and are a popular teen accessory. They are also a good bet if you want to be able to keep in touch with your kids with something that is less intrusive than a cell phone and generally has cheaper monthly costs. Pagers are rigged for numeric (just phone numbers) or alphanumeric (numbers and text) messages. Some even offer teo way messaging. There are lots of sited on the net where you can shop for wireless products.
WALKIE-TALKIES
Walkie-talkies are an even cheaper way to keep in touch. You can use them to co-ordinate at amusement parks, the cottage or if you're driving in tandem with another family. Look for walkie-talkies that operate on the Family Radio Service (FRS) band, which has been set aside for unlicensed personal use for families and small groups in the U.S. and Canada. Even though some walkie-talkies advertise a "privacy code", this only keeps your radio from hearing other people. They are sort of filter and not a scrambler, so conversations should not be considred private.
Internet safety rules also apply to walkie-talkies. Children sometimes like to call out randomly in hopes of finding someone to talk to but be advised that some sexual predators have found FRS and have been known to monitor the band.
Referenced Material & Some Recommended Sites
References: Media Awareness Network; Young Canadians In A Wired World survey of March 2001 by Media Awareness Network and Industry Canada; Family Magazine issue of July/August 2002; SafeKids.com; SafeTeens.com; Family Radio Service
Some Recommended Sites
eWorld Track Real-time satellite tracking solutions for assets and mobile families. It is the first company to offer a socially responsible wireless Internet application that empowers the increasing number of mobile families to track and locate their loved ones over the Internet anytime, anywhere.
PANDA SOFTWARE
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KIDS TAPES-Personalized Music For Kids
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ONLINE PRIVACY
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