Question:

We have children aged 11 and 13 who are active net users. Do you have any tips on how we can shut out unwanted contents from their net surfing? We have Windows Vista.

Answer from Kids and Media’s advisor:

It’s important to have a good dialogue with children on what they do online. Children should repeatedly be reminded about sound net rules, and you have to take the time necessary to understand what kids like to do online, who they communicate with and how they relate to others and set limits for themselves. As well as this you can do a few simple technical steps which will regulate some of the PC use and availability, and which can be changed according to age and need.

Windows Vista has a built in Parent Control. With this you can protect your children against unwanted webpages and get an overview over how much time they spend online. You can set what you think should be approved time use and make sure the children for example can’t use “adult” or violent games. With Web Content Filter you can choose among pre set restriction levels. You can block websites in their entirety, certain pages, or a specified content/theme. You can also exchange lists over unsuitable webpages with other users.

For online games you can set restrictions following the ESRB markings. It’s not a good idea to secretly block webpages. For children and teenagers to experience blocking as protection and not as unwanted violations of their private lives, it is important with open discussion.

Remember that the most important filter isn’t on your computer, but in the mind and heart of the user. As parents we have an important and difficult task in giving our children good attitudes and clear boundaries.

Good luck.