Using the Internet
Using the Internet can be lots of fun. It’s a great way to talk to your friends through email and you can go to some cool websites. If you use the Internet with some good ground rules, it can be a good experience.
However, while many Internet sites are safe, they aren't all safe! Going to a website you don't know could expose you to bad photos or material you shouldn’t be reading. Opening an email from someone you don’t know may lead you into trouble and could cause your computer to get a virus, which could ruin it.
If someone is trying to contact you that you do not know, let your parents or another adult know right away. If anyone is bullying you, report that as well.
BE CAREFUL! Listen to your parents and teachers about safe use of the Internet. “Don’t talk to strangers” applies to using the Internet. Never give out personal information on the Internet including your address.
Remember, using the computer is a privilege and it must be used in a mature way!
Being a Good Friend
Being young is fun and part of that fun is making lots of friends. Making a new friend is always exciting as you discover what you each like to do. Playing games, listening to music, or even just hanging out together can create great memories!
Being a good friend means to be honest, a good listener and trustworthy. It means being supportive when your friend is down or troubled. Being a good friend can also mean letting your friend know when you don’t agree with something they are doing. This can be hard, but it’s what being a good friend is all about. Your friend may not like what you say at the time, but will respect you in the end.
Good advice
Try to make friends with other kids who behave well and obey the law. Don’t get involved with kids who are doing drugs or other things they shouldn’t be doing. Talk to your parents or teachers if you are concerned about those kids or if your own friends start with behaviors that are not healthy.
For Parents:
Social Networking Safety
Social networking sites have become a mainstream medium for teens and adults. Although some of these sites are monitored, there is no way to completely prevent your child from the possibility of being exposed to inappropriate content. These sites encourage the exchange of personal information and, if a child is not cautious, it can be a perfect venue for a predator to take advantage of the child. Parents can teach their children to socialize safely online.
The Federal Trade Commission has created a parent’s guide to social networking sites: http://www.FTC.gov
Here are some quick tips from the FTC on teaching your kids to socialize safely online:
Help your kids understand what information should be private.
Use privacy settings to restrict who can access and post on your child’s website.
Explain that kids should post only information that you- and they- are comfortable with others seeing.
Remind your kids that once they post information online, they can’t take it back.
Know how your kids are getting online.
Talk to your kids about bullying.
Talk to your kids about avoiding sex talk online.
Tell your kids to trust their gut if they have suspicions.
Read sites’ privacy policies.
Take extra steps to protect younger kids.
Go where your kids go online.
Review your child’s “friends” list.
To learn more about staying safe online, visit the websites of the following organizations:
Federal Trade Commission The FTC works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues, visit FTC.gov or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261. The FTC manages OnGuardOnline.gov, which provides practical tips from the federal government and the technology industry to help you be on guard against Internet fraud, secure your computer, and protect your personal information.
Social Networking Online, social networking websites are the latest rage. It seems as though everyone is meeting new friends online or tracking down existing ones.
Your privacy to the outside world is extremely important and the more your parents know, the more they can help to protect your privacy online. If you are under 18, it is important to let your parents know when and where you’re creating an online account.
You can have a lot of fun on these sites. However, there are big risks in revealing personal information online.Don’t do it!
Unfortunately, there are stalkers out there preying on teens, both girls and boys. The stalker may create a false image in order to get your guard down including a fake photo or information about themselves. In truth, they could be much older and have bad intentions. Therefore, we recommend restricting your site and contacts to people you already know. However, if you DO visit with a stranger, never give out information that could lead them to you. Unfortunately, too many teens have let their guard down as they have enjoyed the “relationship” and conversation only to be hurt. One site that has short movie clips and real life stories about teens is http://www.NetSmartz.org. Just click on the teen tab and learn for yourself.
If you choose to use a site, be sure to use access and use the security settings!
Photos Online
Be careful about the photos and information you put online about yourself and others. Even when deleted, these photos and information remain on the Internet forever. As you grow up and become part of the workforce, the last thing you want for yourself or others are pictures or information that doesn’t speak highly of you.
To see information about safeguarding yourself, your family and your computer, check out these sites:
Social Activities
When making plans with friends or sharing your latest interests, the Internet is a great resource for everything from movie times, to the latest music, to local events for memorable time with friends. The following sections contain websites that may help in planning a get together:
Movies
Are you interested in finding out what is playing in your area? Here are some sites to help you check out the latest movies and even get your seats before you arrive:
Interested in movie trivia? Wishing you could remember what movies your favorite star has been in? Check out the Internet Movie Database or IMDB. It’s the Hollywood insider way to check the résumé of directors and stars:
Music
Do you love music? Are you interested in figuring out what’s hot and what’s not? Here are a few sites to keep you up to speed on the latest music talent:
Are you ready to get into the downloading craze? Do you want to be able to get the latest songs and create your own playlists? How about being able to download your favorite podcasts and listen to them at your leisure? Apple created iTunes for this purpose. For more information and to be able to download the application, visit their website. Be warned, you might just find yourself buying an ultra cool iPod and becoming a download junkie!:
Music-Live Shows
Do you prefer seeing your bands live? Do you want access to those front row tickets? Here are a few sites to purchase tickets to all of your favorite concerts:
Have you dreamed of being a soccer manager? Why not try starting a team in a lower division and slowly bring them up the ranks. Even if it’s a virtual reality, it’s still pretty cool. http://www.HatTrick.org
This site allows you to see the score for any major soccer game anywhere in the world! http://www.LiveScore.com
Basketball
Is basketball your sport of choice?
The following website offers video clips, news and stats: http://www.NBA.com
Football
Do you and the pig skin have a special relationship on most Sunday afternoons and Monday nights?
ESPN
Are you an all around sports lover? Check out ESPN’s site, which happens to be one of the biggest sports websites in the world and covers all major sports:
Live Games
The Internet is a fantastic resource for keeping up with your favorite teams and high-definition televisions make you feel like you’re at the game, but nothing compares to seeing a live game. StubHub.com offers tickets to nearly every sporting event in the U.S.!
For Parents:
Social Networking Safety
Social networking sites have become a mainstream medium for teens and adults. Although some of these sites are monitored, there is no way to completely prevent your child from the possibility of being exposed to inappropriate content. These sites encourage the exchange of personal information and, if a child is not cautious, can be a perfect venue for a predator to take advantage of the child. Parents can teach their children to socialize safely online.
The Federal Trade Commission has created a parent’s guide to social networking sites: http://www.FTC.gov
Here are some quick tips from the FTC on teaching your kids to socialize safely online:
Help your kids understand what information should be private.
Use privacy settings to restrict who can access and post on your child’s website.
Explain that kids should post only information that you- and they- are comfortable with others seeing.
Remind your kids that once they post information online, they can’t take it back.
Know how your kids are getting online.
Talk to your kids about bullying.
Talk to your kids about avoiding sex talk online.
Tell your kids to trust their gut if they have suspicions.
Read sites’ privacy policies.
Take extra steps to protect younger kids.
Go where your kids go online.
Review your child’s “friends” list.
For More Information To learn more about staying safe online, visit the websites of the following organizations:
Federal Trade Commission: The FTC works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues, visit FTC.gov or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261. The FTC manages OnGuardOnline.gov, which provides practical tips from the federal government and the technology industry to help you be on guard against Internet fraud, secure your computer, and protect your personal information.
Social Networking
Social networking websites are the rage these days and it seems like everyone is meeting new friends online or tracking down existing ones over the Internet. The following are a few of the social-networking sites today:
Plaxo (online social networking site and contact management): http://www.Plaxo.com
Enjoy these sites. However, know that there are big risks in revealing personal information online.Don’t do it!
Unfortunately, there are stalkers preying on young people, male and female. The stalker may create a false image in order to get your guard down including a fake photo or information about themselves. In truth, they could be much older and have bad intentions. Therefore, we recommend restricting your site and contacts to people you already know. However, if you DO visit with a stranger, never give out information that could lead them to you. Unfortunately, too many people have let their guards down as they have enjoyed the “relationship” and conversation, only to be hurt.
If you choose to use a site, be sure to use access and use the security settings!
Photos Online
Be careful about the photos and information you put online about yourself and others. Even when deleted, these photos and information remain on the Internet forever. As you grow up and enter the workforce, the last thing you want for yourself or others are pictures or information that doesn’t speak highly of you.
To see information about safeguarding yourself, your family and your computer, check out these sites:
Relationships - Online Dating
The world of online dating has taken off. It’s an easy way to find other single people in your area and potentially meet your soul-mate. The following are a few dating sites online:
Social Activities
When making plans with friends or sharing your latest interests, the Internet is a great resource for everything from movie times to the latest music to local events for memorable time with friends. The following sections list some resources that may help in planning a get together.
Movies
Are you interested in finding out what is playing in your area? Here are some sites to help you check out the latest movies and even get your seats before you arrive.
Interested in movie trivia? Wishing you could remember what movies your favorite star has been in? Check out the Internet Movie Database or IMDB. It’s the Hollywood insider way to check the résumé of directors and stars.
Music
Do you love music? Are you interested in figuring out what’s hot and what’s not? Here are a few sites to keep you up to speed on the latest music talent.
Are you ready to get into the downloading craze? Do you want to be able to get the latest songs and create your own playlists? How about being able to download your favorite podcasts and listen to them at your leisure? Apple created iTunes for this purpose. For more information and to be able to download the application, visit their website. Be warned, you might just find yourself buying an ultra cool iPod and becoming a download junkie!
Music- Live Shows
Do you prefer seeing your bands live? Do you want access to those front row tickets? Here are a few sites to purchase tickets to all of your favorite concerts:
Have you dreamed of being a soccer manager? Why not try starting a team in a lower division and slowly bring them up the ranks. Even if it’s a virtual reality, it’s still pretty cool. http://www.HatTrick.org
This site allows you to see the score for any major soccer game anywhere in the world! http://www.LiveScore.com
Basketball
Is basketball your sport of choice?
The following website offers video clips, news and stats: http://www.NBA.com
Football
Do you and the pig skin have a special relationship on most Sunday afternoons and Monday Nights?
ESPN
Are you an all around sports lover? Check out ESPN’s site, which happens to be one of the biggest sports websites in the world and covers all major sports:
Live Games
The Internet is a fantastic resource for keeping up with your favorite teams and high-definition televisions make you feel like you’re at the game, but nothing compares to seeing a live game. StubHub.com offers tickets to nearly every sporting event in the U.S.!
Career/Young Family - Social
Social Networking
Social networking websites are the rage these days and it seems like everyone is meeting new friends online or tracking down existing ones over the Internet. The following are a few of the social-networking sites today:
Enjoy these sites. But remember that although you are not a teen, you could still put yourself or family at risk. Therefore, don’t reveal personal information online. There have been too many stories of stalkers who created a false image and information. If you DO visit with a stranger, never give out information that could lead them to you.
Also, be careful about the photos and information you put online about yourself and others. Even when deleted, these photos and information remain on the Internet forever. There are more and more employers requiring review of your social networking site before offering you a job. The last thing you want for yourself or others are pictures or information that doesn’t speak highly of you.
If you choose to use a site, be sure to use access and use the security settings!
To see information about safeguarding yourself, your family and your computer, check out these sites:
Relationships - Online Dating
The world of online dating has taken off. It can be a way to find other single people in your area and potentially meet your soul-mate. The following are a few of the dating sites online:
Social Activities
When making plans with friends or sharing your latest interests, the Internet is a great resource for everything from movie times to the latest music to local events for memorable time with friends. The following sections list some resources that may be helpful in planning a get together.
Movies
Are you interested in finding out what is playing in your area? Here are some sites to help you check out the latest movies and even get your seats before you arrive.
Interested in movie trivia? Wishing you could remember what movies your favorite star has been in? Check out the Internet Movie Database or IMDB. It’s the Hollywood insider way to check the résumé of directors and stars.
Movies & Media for Children
If you have children, are you concerned with the types of movies they watch? Kids-in-Mind.com provides objective and complete information about a film's content, so you can decide, based on your own value system, whether a movie is appropriate for your kids.
Movies, Music, Video Games…children are surrounded by media. It’s challenging to stay on top of what is appropriate and what is not. Common Sense Media is a national organization led by concerned individuals with experience in child advocacy, public policy, education, media and entertainment. Common Sense Media’s website sorts through the various forms of media your child may be exposed to and helps you to arrive at your own conclusion as to what you feel your children are ready to experience.
Music
Do you love music? Are you interested in figuring out what’s hot and what’s not? Here are a few sites to keep you up to speed on the latest music talent:
Are you ready to get into the downloading craze? Do you want to be able to get the latest songs and create your own playlists? How about being able to download your favorite podcasts and listen to them at your leisure? Apple created iTunes for this purpose. For more information and to be able to download the application, visit their website. Be warned, you might just find yourself buying an ultra cool iPod and becoming a download junkie!
Music - Live Shows
Do you prefer seeing your bands live? Do you want access to those front row tickets? Here are some of the sites to purchase tickets to all of your favorite concerts:
Have you dreamed of being a soccer manager? Why not try starting a team in a lower division and slowly bring them up the ranks. Even if it’s a virtual reality, it’s still pretty cool. http://www.HatTrick.org
This site allows you to see the score for any major soccer game anywhere in the world! http://www.LiveScore.com
Basketball
Is basketball your sport of choice?
The following website offers video clips, news and stats: http://www.NBA.com
Football
Do you and the pig skin have a special relationship on most Sunday afternoons and Monday nights?
ESPN
Are you an all around sports lover? Check out ESPN’s site, which happens to be one of the biggest sports websites in the world and covers all major sports:
Live Games
The Internet is a fantastic resource for keeping up with your favorite teams and high-definition televisions make you feel like you’re at the game, but nothing compares to seeing a live game. StubHub.com offers tickets to nearly every sporting event in the U.S.!
The Disney social network aims to provide a place online where parents can connect with each other based on hobbies, children’s ages, family dynamic, and geographical location. Parents can interact by posting comments, sharing parenting tips, asking questions and sharing the experiences and challenges they face as parents.
Social Networking Safety
Social networking sites have become a mainstream medium for teens and adults. Although some of these sites are monitored, there is no way to completely prevent your child from the possibility of being exposed to inappropriate content. These sites encourage the exchange of personal information and if a child is not cautious, can be a perfect venue for a predator to take advantage of the child. Parents can teach their children to socialize safely online.
The Federal Trade Commission has created a parent’s guide to social networking sites:
Here are some quick tips from the FTC on teaching your kids to socialize safely online:
Help your kids understand what information should be private.
Use privacy settings to restrict who can access and post on your child’s website.
Explain that kids should post only information that you- and they- are comfortable with others seeing.
Remind your kids that once they post information online, they can’t take it back.
Know how your kids are getting online.
Talk to your kids about bullying.
Talk to your kids about avoiding sex talk online.
Tell your kids to trust their gut if they have suspicions.
Read sites’ privacy policies.
Take extra steps to protect younger kids.
Go where your kids go online.
Review your child’s “friends” list.
For More Information: To learn more about staying safe online, visit the websites of the following organizations:
Federal Trade Commission The FTC works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues, visit FTC.gov or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261. The FTC manages OnGuardOnline.gov, which provides practical tips from the federal government and the technology industry to help you be on guard against Internet fraud, secure your computer, and protect your personal information.
Social Networking
Social networking websites are the rage these days and it seems like everyone is meeting new friends online or tracking down existing ones over the Internet. The following are a few of the social networking sites today:
Enjoy these sites. But remember that although you are not a teen, you could still put yourself or family at risk. Therefore, don’t reveal personal information online. There have been too many stories of stalkers who created a false image and information. If you DO visit with a stranger, never give out information that could lead them to you.
Also, be careful about the photos and information you put online about yourself and others. Even when deleted, these photos and information remain on the Internet forever. There are more and more employers requiring review of your social networking site before offering you a job. The last thing you want for yourself or others are pictures or information that doesn’t speak highly of you.
If you choose to use a site, be sure to use access and use the security settings!
To see information about safeguarding yourself, your family and your computer, check out these sites:
Relationships - Online Dating
The world of online dating has taken off. It can be an easy way to find other single people in your area and potentially meet your soul-mate. The following are a few of the dating sites online:
Social Activities
When making plans with friends or sharing your latest interests, the Internet is a great resource for everything from movie times to the latest music to local events for memorable time with friends. The following sections list some resources that might be of help in planning a get together.
Movies
Are you interested in finding out what is playing in your area? Here are some sites to help you check out the latest movies and even get your seats before you arrive:
Interested in movie trivia? Wishing you could remember what movies your favorite star has been in? Check out the Internet Movie Database or IMDB. It’s the Hollywood insider way to check the résumé of directors and stars.
Movies & Media for Children
If you have children, are you concerned with the types of movies they watch? Kids-in-mind.com provides objective and complete information about a film's content, so you can decide, based on your own value system, whether a movie is appropriate for your kids.
Movies, Music, Video Games…children are surrounded by media. It’s challenging to stay on top of what is appropriate and what is not. Common Sense Media is a national organization led by concerned individuals with experience in child advocacy, public policy, education, media and entertainment. Common Sense Media’s website sorts through the various forms of media your child may be exposed to and helps you to arrive at your own conclusion as to what you feel your children are ready to experience.
Music
Do you love music? Are you interested in figuring out what’s hot and what’s not? Here are a few sites to keep you up to speed on the latest music talent:
Are you ready to get into the downloading craze? Do you want to be able to get the latest songs and create your own playlists? How about being able to download your favorite podcasts and listen to them at your leisure? Apple created iTunes for this purpose. For more information and to be able to download the application, visit their website. Be warned, you might just find yourself buying an ultra cool iPod and becoming a download junkie!
Music- Live Shows
Do you prefer seeing your bands live? Do you want access to those front row tickets? Here are some of the sites to purchase tickets to all of your favorite concerts:
Have you dreamed of being a soccer manager? Why not try starting a team in a lower division and slowly bring them up the ranks. Even if it’s a virtual reality, it’s still pretty cool. http://www.HatTrick.org
This site allows you to see the score for any major soccer game anywhere in the world! http://www.LiveScore.com
Basketball
Is basketball your sport of choice?
The following website offers video clips, news and stats: http://www.NBA.com
Football
Do you and the pig skin have a special relationship on most Sunday afternoons and Monday nights?
ESPN
Are you an all around sports lover? Check out ESPN’s site, which happens to be one of the biggest sports websites in the world and covers all major sports:
Live Games
The Internet is a fantastic resource for keeping up with your favorite teams and high-definition televisions make you feel like you’re at the game, but nothing compares to seeing a live game. StubHub.com offers tickets to nearly every sporting event in the U.S.!
The Disney social network aims to provide a place online where parents can connect with each other based on hobbies, children’s ages, family dynamic, and geographical location. Parents can interact by posting comments, sharing parenting tips, asking questions and sharing the experiences and challenges they face as parents.
Social Networking Safety
Social networking sites have become a mainstream medium for teens and adults. Although some of these sites are monitored, there is no way to completely prevent your child from the possibility of being exposed to inappropriate content. These sites encourage the exchange of personal information and if a child is not cautious, can be a perfect venue for a predator to take advantage of the child. Parents can teach their children to socialize safely online.
The Federal Trade Commission has created a parent’s guide to social networking sites:
Here are some quick tips from the FTC on teaching your kids to socialize safely online:
Help your kids understand what information should be private.
Use privacy settings to restrict who can access and post on your child’s website.
Explain that kids should post only information that you- and they- are comfortable with others seeing.
Remind your kids that once they post information online, they can’t take it back.
Know how your kids are getting online.
Talk to your kids about bullying.
Talk to your kids about avoiding sex talk online.
Tell your kids to trust their gut if they have suspicions.
Read sites’ privacy policies.
Take extra steps to protect younger kids.
Go where your kids go online.
Review your child’s “friends” list.
For More Information: To learn more about staying safe online, visit the websites of the following organizations:
Federal Trade Commission The FTC works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues, visit FTC.gov or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261. The FTC manages OnGuardOnline.gov, which provides practical tips from the federal government and the technology industry to help you be on guard against Internet fraud, secure your computer, and protect your personal information.
Social Networking
Social networking websites are the rage these days. Meeting people online or tracking down former friends is common. The following are a few of the social networking sites today:
Enjoy these sites. But remember that although you are not a youngster, you could still put yourself or family at risk. Therefore, don’t reveal personal information online. There have been too many stories of stalkers who created a false image and information.
Also, be careful about the photos and information you put online about yourself and others. Even when deleted, these photos and information remain on the Internet forever. There are more and more employers requiring review of your social networking site before offering you a job.
If you choose to use a site, be sure to use access and use the security settings!
To see information about safeguarding yourself, your family and your computer, check out these sites:
Relationships - Online Dating
The world of online dating has taken off. It can be an easy way to find other single people in your area and potentially meet your soul-mate. The following are a few of the dating sites online:
Relationships - Online Dating Seniors
Are you tired of looking through the sites that don’t cater to your age or your needs? The following are a few of the senior dating websites available:
Social Activities
When making plans with friends or sharing your latest interests, the Internet is a great resource for everything from movie times to the latest music to local events for memorable time with friends. The following sections contain websites that may be of help in planning a great get together.
Movies
Are you interested in finding out what is playing in your area? Here are some sites to help you check out the latest movies and even get your seats before you arrive:
Interested in movie trivia? Wishing you could remember what movies your favorite star has been in? Check out the Internet Movie Database or IMDB. It’s the Hollywood insider way to check the résumé of directors and stars.
Movies & Media for Grandchildren
If you have children or grandchildren, are you concerned with the types of movies they watch? Kids-in-mind.com provides objective and complete information about a film's content, so you can decide, based on your own value system, whether a movie is appropriate for your grandkids.
Movies, Music, Video Games… children are surrounded by media. It’s challenging to stay on top of what is appropriate and what is not. Common Sense Media is a national organization led by concerned individuals with experience in child advocacy, public policy, education, media and entertainment. Common Sense Media’s website sorts through the various forms of media your grandchild may be exposed to and helps you to arrive at your own conclusion as to what you feel your grandchildren are ready to experience.
Music
Do you love music? Here are a few sites to keep you up to speed on the latest music talent:
Are you ready to get into the downloading craze? You can do it! Do you want to be able to create your own playlists? How about being able to download your favorite podcasts and listen to them at your leisure? Apple created iTunes for this purpose. For more information and to be able to download the application, visit their website. Be warned, you might just find yourself buying an ultra cool iPod and becoming a download junkie!
Have you dreamed of being a soccer manager? Why not try starting a team in a lower division and slowly bring them up the ranks. Even if it’s a virtual reality, it’s still pretty cool. http://www.HatTrick.org
This site allows you to see the score for any major soccer game anywhere in the world! http://www.LiveScore.com
Basketball
Is basketball your sport of choice?
The following website offers video clips, news and stats: http://www.NBA.com
Football
Do you and the pig skin have a special relationship on most Sunday afternoon and Monday nights?
ESPN
Are you an all around sports lover? Check out ESPN’s site, which happens to be one of the biggest sports websites in the world and covers all major sports:
Live Games
The Internet is a fantastic resource for keeping up with your favorite teams and high-definition televisions make you feel like you’re at the game, but nothing compares to seeing a live game. StubHub.com offers tickets to nearly every sporting event in the U.S.!
For Grandparents
Social Networking Safety
Social networking sites have become a mainstream medium for teens and adults. Although some of these sites are monitored, there is no way to completely prevent your grandchild from the possibility of being exposed to inappropriate content. These sites encourage the exchange of personal information and if a child is not cautious, can be a perfect venue for a predator to take advantage of the child. Parents can teach their children to socialize safely online.
We want you to be aware. Grandparents can also help teach their grandchildren to socialize safely online. Or, you can pass this information along to your grandchild's parents.
The Federal Trade Commission has created a grandparent/parent’s guide to social networking sites:
Grandkids:
Here are some quick tips from the FTC on teaching your grandkids to socialize safely online:
Help your grandkids understand what information should be private.
Use privacy settings to restrict who can access and post on your grandchild’s website.
Explain that kids should post only information that you- and they- are comfortable with others seeing.
Remind your grandkids that once they post information online, they can’t take it back.
Know how your grandkids are getting online.
Talk to your grandkids about bullying.
Talk to your grandkids about avoiding sex talk online.
Tell your grandkids to trust their gut if they have suspicions.
Read sites' privacy policies.
Take extra steps to protect younger kids.
Go where your grandkids go online.
Review your grandchild’s “friends” list.
For More Information: To learn more about staying safe online, visit the websites of the following organizations:
Federal Trade Commission The FTC works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues, visit FTC.gov or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261. The FTC manages OnGuardOnline.gov, which provides practical tips from the federal government and the technology industry to help you be on guard against Internet fraud, secure your computer, and protect your personal information.
Social Networking
Social networking websites are the rage these days and it seems like everyone is meeting new friends online or tracking down existing ones over the Internet. The following are a few of the social networking sites today:
Enjoy these sites. But remember that although you are not a youngster, you could still put yourself or family at risk. Therefore, don’t reveal personal information online. There have been too many stories of stalkers who created a false image and information.
Also, be careful about the photos and information you put online about yourself and others. Even when deleted, these photos and information remain on the internet forever. There are more and more employers requiring review of your social networking site before offering you a job.
If you choose to use a site, be sure to use access and use the security settings!
To see information about safeguarding yourself, your family and your computer, check out these sites:
Relationships - Online Dating
The world of online dating has taken off. It’s an easy way to find other single people in your area and potentially meet your soul-mate. The following are a few of the dating sites online:
Relationships - Online Dating Seniors
Are you tired of looking through the sites that don’t cater to your age or your needs? The following are a few of the senior dating websites available:
Social Activities
When making plans with friends or sharing your latest interests, the Internet is a great resource for everything from movie times to the latest music to local events for memorable time with friends. The following sections contain websites that may be of help in planning a get together.
Movies
Are you interested in finding out what is playing in your area? Here are some sites to help you check out the latest movies and even get your seats before you arrive.
Interested in movie trivia? Wishing you could remember what movies your favorite star has been in? Check out the Internet Movie Database or IMDB. It’s the Hollywood insider way to check the résumé of directors and stars.
Movies & Media for Grandchildren
If you have grandchildren, are you concerned with the types of movies they watch? Kids-in-mind.com provides objective and complete information about a film's content, so you can decide, based on your own value system, whether a movie is appropriate for your grandkids.
Movies, Music, Video Games… children are surrounded by media. It’s challenging to stay on top of what is appropriate and what is not. Common Sense Media is a national organization led by concerned individuals with experience in child advocacy, public policy, education, media and entertainment. Common Sense Media’s website sorts through the various forms of media your grandchild may be exposed to and helps you to arrive at your own conclusion as to what you feel your grandchildren are ready to experience.
Music
Do you love music? Here are a few sites to keep you up to speed on the latest music talent:
Are you ready to get into the downloading craze? You can do it! Do you want to be able to create your own playlists? How about being able to download your favorite podcasts and listen to them at your leisure? Apple created iTunes for this purpose. For more information and to be able to download the application, visit their website. Be warned, you might just find yourself buying an ultra cool iPod and becoming a download junkie!
Have you dreamed of being a soccer manager? Why not try starting a team in a lower division and slowly bring them up the ranks. Even if it’s a virtual reality, it’s still pretty cool. http://www.HatTrick.org
This site allows you to see the score for any major soccer game anywhere in the world! http://www.LiveScore.com
Basketball
Is basketball your sport of choice?
The following website offers video clips, news and stats: http://www.NBA.com
Football
Do you and the pig skin have a special relationship on most Sunday afternoons and Monday nights?
ESPN
Are you an all around sports lover? Check out ESPN’s site, which happens to be one of the biggest sports websites in the world and covers all major sports:
Live Games
The Internet is a fantastic resource for keeping up with your favorite teams and high-definition televisions make you feel like you’re at the game, but nothing compares to seeing a live game. StubHub.com offers tickets to nearly every sporting event in the U.S.!
For Grandparents:
Social Networking Safety
Social networking sites have become a mainstream medium for kids, especially teens. Although some of these sites are monitored, there is no way to completely prevent your grandchild from the possibility of being exposed to inappropriate content. These sites encourage the exchange of personal information and if a child is not cautious, can be a perfect venue for a predator to take advantage of the child.
We want you to be aware. Grandparents can help teach their grandchildren to socialize safely online. Or, you can pass this information along to your grandchild’s parents.
The Federal Trade Commission has created a grandparent's/parent’s guide to social networking sites:
Here are some quick tips from the FTC on teaching your grandkids to socialize safely online:
Help your grandkids understand what information should be private.
Use privacy settings to restrict who can access and post on your grandchild’s website.
Explain that kids should post only information that you- and they- are comfortable with others seeing.
Remind your grandkids that once they post information online, they can’t take it back.
Know how your grandkids are getting online.
Talk to your grandkids about bullying.
Talk to your grandkids about avoiding sex talk online.
Tell your grandkids to trust their gut if they have suspicions.
Read sites’ privacy policies.
Take extra steps to protect younger kids.
Go where your grandkids go online.
Review your grandchild’s “friends” list.
For More Information:
To learn more about staying safe online, visit the websites of the following organizations:
Federal Trade Commission The FTC works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues, visit FTC.gov or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261. The FTC manages OnGuardOnline.gov, which provides practical tips from the federal government and the technology industry to help you be on guard against Internet fraud, secure your computer, and protect your personal information.
Many seniors stay active in their golden years. They enjoy their friends and social activities. We hope you enjoy the tips we’ve provided below, especially those related to using the Internet to get the information you need!
Social Activities
When making plans with friends, the Internet is a great resource for everything from movie times to local concerts. The following are websites that may be of help in planning a get together.
Movies
Are you interested in finding out what is playing in your area? Here are some sites to help you get information on the new movies and even get your seats before you arrive.
Interested in movie trivia? Wishing you could remember what movies your favorite star has been in? Check out the Internet Movie Database or IMDB. It’s the Hollywood insider way to check the résumé of directors and stars.
Movies & Media for Grandchildren
If you have grandchildren, are you concerned with the types of movies they watch? Kids-in-mind.com provides objective and complete information about a film's content, so you can decide, based on your own value system, whether a movie is appropriate for your grandkids.
Movies, Music, Video Games… children are surrounded by media. It’s challenging to stay on top of what is appropriate and what is not. Common Sense Media is a national organization led by concerned individuals with experience in child advocacy, public policy, education, media and entertainment. Common Sense Media’s website sorts through the various forms of media your child or grandchild may be exposed to and helps you to arrive at your own conclusion as to what you feel your grandchildren are ready to experience.
Music
Do you love music? Here are a few sites to keep you up to speed on your favorite music.
Have you dreamed of being a soccer manager? Why not try starting a team in a lower division and slowly bring them up the ranks. Even if it’s a virtual reality, it’s still pretty cool. http://www.HatTrick.org
This site allows you to see the score for any major soccer game anywhere in the world! http://www.LiveScore.com
Basketball Is basketball your sport of choice?
The following website offers video clips, news and stats: http://www.NBA.com
Football
Do you and the pig skin have a special relationship on most Sunday afternoons and Monday nights?
ESPN
Are you an all around sports lover? Check out ESPN’s site, which happens to be one of the biggest sports websites in the world and covers all major sports:
Live Games
The Internet is a fantastic resource for keeping up with your favorite teams and high-definition televisions make you feel like you’re at the game, but nothing compares to seeing a live game. StubHub.com offers tickets to nearly every sporting event in the U.S.!
Other Internet Use
Reunions
Here’s a link to getting information about a reunion:
Relationships-Online Dating Seniors
Whatever happened to the days of meeting someone at a birthday party? The world of online dating has taken off. While it’s a new concept for many, it can be a way for singles to meet other single people.
The following are a few of the senior dating websites:
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