Should my child have Internet access in his or her bedroom?

No …

The Internet is an adult medium, with little or no restriction on what is placed on it. On the positive side children can find useful information sources, fun computer games and entertaining web sites. However, they may also be exposed to exploitative commercial sites aimed at children, contact from undesirable strangers, pornography networks and cyberbullying.

For this reason, children's access to the Internet must be supervised by their parents or caregivers. Filtering software can provide some help, but cannot replace the need for supervision.

Tips for parents

• Do not put a computer in a child's bedroom.
• Keep an eye on how much, as well as what kind of, use is being made of the Internet.
• Be available for discussion about any disturbing material.
• Discuss with your children good CyberSafety principles, so that they understand why supervision is necessary.

Related topics

What are the risks involved with my child using the Internet

Tips for safe Internet use

Should my child have a television in his or her bedroom?

Readings & research

• Computers & the internet
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• Computer/video games
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