I have a teenager and two pre-teens. They all use the computer. Big surprise. And MySpace, FaceBook, and the other social network sites are popular with kids everywhere. Experts state you need to confront your child and demand to see their profiles. That’s not such a good idea. “Catching them” is not your priority. Building the relationship and keeping them safe is.

Here are some tips which will help:

1. Ask your child which networks they are on. Give them a chance to tell you and make sure they know the penalties for lying to you.
2. Tell your child they have 24 Hours to show their profile(s) to you. “I don’t want to see it now, but I want to see it tomorrow. Make sure there isn’t anything on there you wouldn’t want me to see.”
3. The next day when you sit down with your child tell them of the importance of keeping the information on their pages safe, so they aren’t at risk. Even if only their friends have access to their profiles, information could be used against them if the friendship falls apart and that could make things more difficult for them.
4. Write down all the URLs of their profiles. Ask again, “Is this all?” Repeat the punishment for lying.
5. If the computer is in their room, move it to a room where their activities could be monitored.
6. While your child is gone, install PC Tattletale so you know EXACTLY where your child is going online. It is hands down the best internet monitoring software I have tested.

Remember to Trust, but Verify your child’s activities online.