15 Steps to Safer Social Networking for Your Child

Web security expert Mary Kay Hoal offers wisdom, tools to protect kids online.

ByABC News
June 10, 2011, 3:58 PM

June 22, 2011— -- If your child, tween or younger teen is a member of an adult-intended social network like Facebook, Twitter or MySpace, and switching over to an age-appropriate alternative like Yoursphere isn't an option, then I recommend you do the following 15 things to optimize their opportunity for a safer social networking experience:

1. Talk to your kids, and don't stop talking. Having a consistent dialogue about online safety is one of the most important things a parent can do. Online actions have real-world consequences. What your children post or share today may hurt them or someone else tomorrow.