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Children and Computers: Pros and Cons of Computers for Kids

Watching a young child use a computer makes a person believe that children were born with an innate knowledge of technology and computers. Perhaps it is their open-mindedness that allows children to master computer use at such a young age; but with this early mastery comes questions about children and computers and the dangers of the Internet.

Computers and Kids
Computers for kids are commonplace. They use them in the home, they use them in school, and they use them at friends' houses. Yet while their little fingers fly over the keys, parents need to ensure that computers and the Internet remain a safe place.

Computers For Kids: The Cons
Kids are using computers at a very early age, as young as preschool. This has caused concern among parents and professionals about the potential harmful effects of early computer use:

• dangers of the Internet, such as Internet predators and pornographic Web sites.
• obesity due to children sitting at a computer all day and not exercising.
• physical ailments such as carpal tunnel syndrome, neck pain and back pain.
• social disorders due to an imbalance of computer use and playtime with friends in the real world.

Computers For Kids: The Pros
At the same time, there is no denying the technological advantages present with early computer use:

• early development of computer skills.
• knowledge available from child-appropriate Web sites.
• quick and effective access to educational material.
• unparalleled communication options.

Dangers Of The Internet
One of the constant worries surrounding children online is the threat of pedophiles lurking in cyberspace. It is imperative that children understand that people often pretend to be someone else online, that adults can easily hide behind photographs of children, and that they should never talk to strangers online.

Parents should check the history feature of their Web browser to find out what sites their children are visiting, and they need to repeatedly remind their kids about the dangers of the Internet.

As children gain confidence and enjoyment surfing the web, they may feel free to download music, videos and programs. These downloads leave computers vulnerable to spyware, viruses and thieves. Be sure to update your virus protection regularly and let your kids know that many sites are dangerous.

Kids may also be too quick to fill out forms and participate in online surveys, which may jeopardize their family's safety and privacy by revealing their address and phone number. The best defense against these dangers is to educate children, know what your kids are doing online and monitor their activities.

Basic Safety Rules For Children and Computers
Following are a few basic rules to keep kids safer online:

• Don't post photographs with any identifying information.
• Don't share a password.
• Don't talk to strangers.
• Tell a parent if you receive anything online that makes you uncomfortable.

Basic Safety Rules for Parents
Following are a few basic rules that parents may want to consider to help keep their children safe:

• Discuss computer and Internet rules with your child.
• Ensure that you are up to date with virus software, firewalls and anti-spyware software.
• Keep computer in a central location, as this will allow you to see what your child is doing.
• Talk to your kids about dangers of the Internet and what they are doing online.
• Use parental control tools to limit access to Web sites.