A Note to Parents from HSPLS

 

The Hawaii State Library is joining the American Library Association and libraries across the country to help provide answers to these and other questions for parents.

The Internet is the most exciting new learning tool since the printing press. However, like other new technology of the past -- radio, movies, television -- the Internet has raised concerns about its possible negative impact on children. It is important that parents teach their children to make wise choices, whether about books, movies, TV or the Internet.

The following suggestions can assist you in teaching your child to be "street smart" on the Information Highway and in making sure their experience is a positive one.

Take time to learn about the Internet, the wealth of educational resources it offers and how to use it wisely.

Spend time online with your child and provide clear guidelines for Internet use. Ask your children to share their favorite Web sites and what they like about them. Help them discover Web sites that can help them with their homework, hobbies and other special interests.

Talk with your children about what they are seeing and doing in cyberspace. This will give you insight into their special interests and an opportunity to express your point of view. Let your children know there are subjects or areas that you prefer to be off limits and explain why.

Teach children to be wise consumers in cyberspace. Remind them that not everything they see or hear may be true. Some sites may be trying to sell them something.

Learn how to evaluate Internet sites. Most public libraries provide books, magazines and other materials with reviews and guides to Worldwide Web Sites. Ask your librarian about new Internet guides written for parents and children.

Teach children "safety" rules for dealing with strangers online, such as never giving out their full name, address, telephone number or a credit card number, or never arranging to meet someone they met online without permission.

Ask a librarian. Librarians have always been expert at selecting materials for children of varying ages, interests and abilities. Today they are applying those same skills online to help you and your child.

The Hawaii State Public Library System has no control over the information accesses through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its contents. The library affirms the rights and responsibilities of parents and legal guardians to guide their children’s use of all library resources, including the Internet. A wide variety of sites for different age levels and all points of view are available through the Internet. Parents are encouraged to take an active role and talk about their personal values and expectations for their children’s use of this resource.

Help for Parents

The Hawaii State Public Library System staff have taken the time to select sites recommended for young people. Start your journey through the Internet at our

Kid Stuff site located at http://www.hcc.hawaii.edu/hspls/kidstuff.html

Here you’ll find links to a wide variety of topics of interest to children and teens.

For further information, try the following sources:

Child Safety on the Information Highway: http://www.safekids.com

The Librarian’s Guide to Cyberspace for Parents and Kids: http://www.ala.org/parentspage/greatsites

The Internet Advocate: http://www.monroe.lib.in.us/~lchampel/netadv.html

Kidz Privacy courtesy of the U. S. Federal Trade Commission: information about how to protect kids' privacy online for children, their parents, and website operators: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/edcams/kidzprivacy/index.html