When I was a kid, and I’m really still pretty young, the most my parents had to really worry about was who I was with, where I was going, and if v was back when they expected me. I didn’t have a computer, there was no internet, and we certainly didn’t have cell phones. With new technology, we are afforded several conveniences and have m ore resources for emergencies. Cell phones, for instance, help us avoid finding the nearest pay phone or knocking on a stranger’s door to use their phone in cases of accidents and emergencies. Remember those days? Now we can’t seem to go anywhere without a cell phone. And like an ad I recently saw, our cell phones are the one of the only things in our lives that are within 3 feet of us at all times. Weird.

But, with new technology, there are also threats we don’t think about until after the fact. A course I took in college brought this to my attention. A government class entitle “Science and Technology Policy” made it clear that our policies are reactive rather that proactive. How true is that when it comes to cell phones and the internet? Only AFTER the technology has been launched and imbedded in our society do we realize the need for restraint and regulators.

 We have all seen the media hype about the various DANGERS of cell phone and computer use for our children” cyber sex, pornography, sexting. Online predators, children sending nude photos of themselves online and on their cell phone. The list goes on. Who would have thought of these problems upfront, ahead of time? Not me. But, like many things we are being reactive and talking about the problems. Where are the solutions?

 I feel for parents today. Parents are inundated with a plethora of horror stories almost daily. It’s difficult enough to be a parent and raves our kids these days. But, not being able to watch our children all the time and with new technology on cyberspace and with cell phones that even many parents don’t understand, makes parenting all the more daunting. 

 Luckily, there are some wonderful non-profit organizations out there focused on cyber bullying, online predators, and any other potential dangers our children may face. Education and awareness, as always, does seem to be the key. Still, there are some things parents can do:

 

  • Inform children that it is wrong for adults to touch them inappropriately and to engage children in sexual activity with them.
  • Encourage your children to feel comfortable telling you anything, especially if it involves another adult. If your child does not feel comfortable being completely honest with you, then encourage them find another trusted adult they can talk to in confidence.
  • Learn about the people with whom your child is spending time.
  • Know where each of your children is all times. Know your children’s friends and be clear with your children about the places and homes they may visit. Make it a rule for your children to check in with you when they arrive at or depart from a particular location and when there is a change in plans. You should also let them know when YOU are running late or if your plans have changed so that they can see the rule is for their safety and not being used just to “check up” on them.
  • Never leave children unattended in an automobile, whether it is running or not. Children should never be left unsupervised or allowed to spend time alone, or with others, in automobiles. Remind children NEVER to hitchhike, approach a car or engage in a conversation with anyone in a car who they do not know or trust, or go anywhere with anyone without getting your permission first.
  • Be an active participant with your children’s activities, you will have a better opportunity to observe how the adults in charge interact with your children. If you are concerned about anyone’s behavior, take it up with the sponsoring organization. 
  • Notice when someone shows one or all of your children a great deal of attention or begins giving them gifts. Take time to talk to your children, find out why the person is acting in this way.
  • Teach your kids that they have the right to say NO to any unwelcome, uncomfortable, or confusing touch or actions by others. Teach them to tell you immediately if this happens. Reassure them that you are there to help and it is okay to tell you anything.
  • Screen baby sitters and care givers. Many states now have public registries that allow parents to screen individuals for prior criminal records and sex offenses. Check references with other families who have used the care giver or baby sitter. Once you have chosen the care giver, drop in unexpectedly to see how your children are doing. Ask your children how the experience with the care giver was, and listen carefully to their responses.
  • Practice basic safety skills with your children. Make an outing to a mall or a park a “teachable” experience in which your children can practice checking with you, using pay phones, going to the restroom with a friend, and locating the adults who can help if they need assistance. Remember that allowing your children to wear clothing or carry items in public on which their name is displayed can bring about unwelcome attention from inappropriate people who may be looking for a way to start a conversation with your children.
  • Remember that there is no substitute for your attention and supervision. Being available and taking time to really know and listen to your children helps build feelings of safety and security.
  • Keep track of their cell phone and computer use. Keep computer use limited and in a common room like a living room Pay attention if they seem to be spending a lot of time online or with their phones. Be sensitive to any behavioral changes that may coincide
  • When you can’t supervise, look at computer and cell safety software that not only blocks dangerous activities, but also alerts you to potential threats. There are several out there that do this so you are in the know. Some even have GPS tracking so you know where they are, can block texting and driving and/or in designated place like school.

Overall, it’s up to you to keep your kids safe and give them the tools so they can help you help them. Parenting is no easy task and does seem harder today then it used to be. Technology has helped our children act older faster than ever. It’s important we take proactive steps to help protect their innocence and keep them safe.

Todd is a financial planner, speaker and writer who is passionate about family and child safety. His most recent cause about web and cell safety can be found at www.mywebsafety.com/keepyourkidssafe
He also can be 602-696-6704

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/parenting-articles/keeping-kids-safe-today-is-harder-than-ever-1609809.html

Filed under: Parenting

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