1. We have parental controls through our anti virus software. Isn’t that good enough?

Parental control software will flag certain words and images and keep your child from seeing them. But will it flag a profile pic from a predator that is befriending your child? No. Many predators begin their relationships with our children as their buddy and don’t seem scary at all. And older children sometimes figure out a way around the parental controls.

2. I feel like I am spying by reading my child’s email.

If the email is sent by someone you have approved, you don’t have to read that mail unless you want to do so. But if your child receives an email with someone you don’t know, you can ask your child first about the person. If you still feel worried, with KidsEmail.org you will still have the choice to read the email. You could keep them out of a dangerous situation.

If you have a question, please post a comment and we will be glad to answer it.