As a parent to growing kids, I found this helpful tips from Trend Micro on how to ensure the online safety of kids. Let’s admit it, kids are quite fond of social networks (more than their parents). My generation grew up watching television. Today, kids have the Internet and online social networks — not to mention online games. So it’s best that we parents should also understand how social networks work, for instance, so we could guide them.

Here’s one good example from Trend Micro’s website, which I think is very important:

Set reasonable expectations. Pulling the plug on your child’s favorite social site is like pulling the plug on their social life. This can shut down communication and send kids “underground” where they’re more at risk.

Here’s another one:

Try to get your kids to share their profiles and blogs with you. Also, use search engines and the search tools on social networking sites to search for your kids’ full names, phone numbers, and other identifying information. You’re not invading their privacy if they’re putting personal info in public places online.

Do you have any other practical tips you wish to share?

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