Does anyone have any recommendations for computer software that limits what my children view online? I've heard of netnanny and k9 online but I don't know anything about them. My oldest just turned 9 and would like to use our old computer. What has worked for you and your kids?
We have had good success with Net Nanny. It is easy to use and you get an e-mail when the kids try to visit websites they are not supposed to access. Plus, you set up an "account" for each child that governs what each child can view. This is helpful for different aged kids using the same computer.
we use the parenting tools on windows vista. They are great. You can either block certain types of websites or you can put in the websites that you will allow. If there is somewhere that my daughter is wanting to go new she will tell me and I will check it out and then give her access to the website if it is ok. I can put time limits on how long she can be on the computer.
I haven't installed any software on my computer - we've just set some rules about when the computer can be used. We put it in the kitchen, which is the most active area of the house. I'm around when they are on so I can see what they are doing. I know this won't work forever, but when limited to an hour a day playtime I think we're fine for now. Good luck.
Definately KIDZUI. Its your kids own internet browser. They don't even get on the internet the same way you would. Can only view age appr. approved sites. Also, you get email updates of what they have been doing on it. It wonderful, use it for my 5 kids. Just go to kidzui.com and download, it's free!
Put the computer in the the most pulic place in your house and monitor it. Take away computer time if he abuses it. The computer is a privilige.
My kids are only allowed to play the games I give them. And only allowed to be on it while I am home. If you password protect it they can't get into anything unless you are right there.
Same goes for the tv.
I have used K9 and I like it. You can decide what sights are allowed and can override if you want to access something that your kids can't
L.,
check out kidzui. I just put both of my (older - 8,6) kids on it at the reccommendation of several of my "techy geek" friends. Personally I am not great at computer or on line stuff. This is a website that you can control who your kids friend and you can block things. It goes beyond a filter it only allows websites that are approved by the teachers and parents who administer it. My husband thinks it is pretty good as well. You can make up a user name and password for your child but you as a parent have a parent log in so you can control and monitor what your kids see and do.
Hope this helps.
T.
thegamelock.com is my software of choice for kids 8 and 11. It is not a filter but simply sets a time limit and the screen locks up once the time limit has been reached. It has been an absolute lifesaver for me. My kids are never in the house anymore. And it is so simple to download and use. Gamelock has actually become a verb in my house....do your homework or I'll Gamelock you...clean your room or i'll Gamelock you....it is great.
