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Social networking sites allow people to gather online around shared interests or causes, like finding people who live nearby or who are in the same age range. These sites allow teens to design their own personalized page on the Internet, much like an interactive scrapbook, that can include their favorite music clips, their choice of designs, photos, favorite quotes and any other information about themselves they wish to include. Users can also set up blogs (similar to an online diary), a friend network and messages centers. It’s very easy to put a lot of information online, and computer savvy teens can accomplish this in just a few minutes, sometimes without understanding the risks they may be taking when they do.

Teens love social networking sites because it’s their space. It’s a place where they can create and showcase who they are and also keep tabs on all of their friends. As modern parents who know that freedom can lead to independent thinking and responsible doing, we want our teens to have freedom. However, keeping our teens safe at the same time is not an easy task when your teen has access to the entire world from the family room. So what are some things you can do to protect your teens while allowing for that room to grow?

• Use available technology. There is no shortage of Internet Safety tools available to help you control, track or limit what your kids do online. Take the time to learn about Internet filters, firewalls, monitoring software, browsers for kids and other tools. While they are not a replacement for strong parenting, they can help make your task easier, especially with younger children.

• Require that the computer remain in an open area inside your home, with the monitor visible to others passing through, rather than in your teen’s bedroom. Be aware that cell phones and other hand-held digital devices now allow access to the Internet.

• Talk to your kids about why they are on a social networking sites, how they communicate with others and how they represent themselves on these sites.

• Social networking sites and forums are public spaces. Make it clear to your teen that any information they post about themselves, their family or their friends is open for the world to see, including photos and videos. Discuss what is safe to post, as well as what isn’t.

• Communicate the dangers and consequences of posting inappropriate or too much personal information. Monitor who their friends are online and make sure they are people your teen already knows.

• Review your teen’s Web page or blog together and make this a regular activity, so they aren’t tempted to add inappropriate content after the fact.

The key is to remember that the Internet is a lot like the real world. Be consistent with setting rules and follow through on your own commitments to your children. If you say you'll be monitoring their activities, make sure you do so regularly. Make sure they know their online actions can have a long-term impact on their future successes.