Thoughts For Parents on FACEBOOK

On a snowy day, many people stay in side and watch a DVD, play a game, or go on the computer. Though, Facebook is intended for older folks (yes, there is supposed to be an age limit) many kids are involved in Facebook. Here's some great thoughts from www.EpicParent.tv
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Facebook is a great place to re-unite with old friends, make business connections, drive traffic, expand spiritual influence and post pics from 82 while you skated to “Another One Bites the Dust”. Facebook can also be a place of lust, secrecy and it can be a dangerous place for kids to spend their time.

FACEBOOK DANGERS FOR CHILDREN:

* Identity Theft: Scammers are lurking behind the pages to steal your kids personal information.
* Blemished Reputation: “A recent Career-Builder survey found that 45% of employers use sites like Facebook to research candidates; 35% found content that led them to reject a prospect.”
* Outrageous Spending: Kids are spending mom & dad’s cash on credits and Facebook games. The charges typically show up on mobile phone accounts. (be sure to double check your bill)
* Sexual Content: A 12 year old recently received a “how are you in bed” quiz on their wall.
* Predator Activity: Predators pose as children on Facebook with the goal of connecting and harming children. Peter Champman used Facebook as a tool to meet, rape and kill 17 year old Ashleigh Hall. You can read the story HERE.
* Addiction: Facebook can become addicting and zap all your kiddos time.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR KIDS ON FACEBOOK:

* Honest Conversation: Sit down with your kids and share with them the dangers Facebook presents. Don’t scare them, just make them aware of the risks.
* Form Rules: I encourage all parents to agree upon specific rules when it comes to Facebook, write down the rules so there are no questions asked.
* Watch Closely: As your children are creating their profile, watch closely and make sure there is no personal information shared.
* Use Privacy Links: Set your kids profile to private, this means that only approved friends can view your child’s information. Check out this detailed explanation on how to set up a private profile, READ HERE.
* Set Time Boundaries: Last week I did a post, 11 SIGNS MOM & DAD ARE ADDICTED TO FACEBOOK. Your kids can be addicted too, monitor their time.
* Be Their Friend: Create your own profile and become your kid’s friend.
* Monitor Behavior: Regularly check out the posts and pics associated with your kids’ profile.
* Just Say NO: Many requests and game invites contain malware that will infiltrate your computer system.
* Flag The Bully: If your child is being bullied, Facebook makes it easy to report the issue. Read HERE for more information.
* PcPandora: You can record every move made on your kids computer, read more HERE.