From The State Lets Keep Parents Involved by Al Fredrickson

The Internet offers virtually unlimited access to a vast array of information from all over the world on almost any topic. World Wide Web (WWW) pages can be, and are, developed by anyone with the time, interest and available equipment. The fact that the WWW isn't supervised or monitored has some people concerned. The fear is that our children may access material or information that we would consider harmful or, at best, inappropriate for their age and maturity level.

These fears have caused some to call for government intervention into cyberspace. Congress, through the Communications Decency Act (CDA) portion of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, recently attempted to address the issue of what is posted on the Internet. The CDA was struck down as unconstitutional by the US District Court as it related to the first and fifth amendments.

While there are many valid points on both sides of this issue, I think this debate brings up a point that is of critical importance to us, the issue of parental involvement in the lives of our children. There are two ways that parents or concerned adults can exercise their guidance and involvement in a child's online time.

With the advent of various filtering software and the v-chip for television, we are able to monitor and supervise what our children are accessing without sitting at their side continuously. While these technologies allow some control over access, I hope that we don't get lulled into complacency by these solutions. These technologies are valuable when we can't be there, but it is important to realize that whenever possible, we need to be involved in what our children are doing and seeing. By being there with our kids when they access (or see) material that raises questions in their minds, we can capitalize on teachable moments. These moments are valuable for both the values lessons as well as the relationship building opportunities they present. Remember that our children look to us for guidance.

As educators, we recognize that technology provides opportunities for growth and learning. As our lives have become more involved and complicated, the temptation to use technology (television or computers) as a babysitter increases. Let's encourage parents not to take that path. Filtering software is not a complete solution. While it may seem like an easy solution to call for government intervention in the form of censorship, this solution is short sighted. By involving ourselves in the education and activities of our children, we are furthering their development and building stronger relationships with them.

Al Fredrickson is the Prevention Coordinator of the Chemical Dependency Program Division, MN Department of Human Services.