Social Networking news and information

As a parent and a social networking afficianado, I admit some fear and trepidation when I consider my children taking part in the online world.  I recently helped my almost 9 year old set up her own blog (blocked by robots.txt of course).  My hope is that because I am involved in helping her set up and maintain it, the communication level we currently have will continue for years to come.  And, when the first sicko comes-a-texting, she'll feel encouraged to come to me. 

I don't want her first experience iwith the internet's ugly side to be after she's long gone from my home and has no one to ask about dealing with it... 

Now, I understand that most parents are much less socially savvy than I am, and I acknowledge that I even can be fooled and scammed.  That being said, I must be there to guide my children in safe social networking.

I've participated in several parenting-aimed Social Networking discussions and what I always try to get across to parents is  that the internet is a geographical location, just like the mall, the library, school or the skating rink.  It poses the same risks, along with the same possiblities for enrichment. 

Many parents that I speak to have taken the drastic step of cutting off the internet or disallowing MySpace in their home.  However, while this cold-turkey approach is gratifying, it's the equivelent of shoving your fingers in your ears and singing, "I can't hear you, I can't hear you"... 

Children who are not treated like their feelings matter and their thought are heard will rebel faster than you can say 'other people's internet'.  If you don't think that your kids will find a way onto MySpace via proxy or via OPP, you are sadly unconnected with reality.

Taking away the internet has the potential to ruin your relationship with your teen and removes them from productive and enriching teen experiences via the online medium as well.  Understanding the net is a prerequisite to college, career and future. 

Don't throw out the baby with the bathwater...  There are productive and healthy ways to enjoy social networking.  I'll expound on them as the week goes by.  Stay tuned for more on private profiles, healthy teen socializing, kid-safe and teen-safe sites and other safe social networking options.