Advice needed for monitoring child's internet usage

[Andy Baker]

All,

I need some advice. I'm looking for tips from not only fellow parents, but also students who know much more about internet security than I do.

The anti virus thread reminded me of the dangers that lurk in the world of the internet.

My 3 daughters are becoming more and more tech savvy and comfortable in surfing around on limited sites, and they are wanting to do and see more. My oldest daughter is 10, and she is already savvy at finding dad-approved video's on youtube. The younger two kids are webkins experts, and will be venturing out to other sites as they become more comfortable.

Currently, the kids use my wife's computer. It is located right next to mine. Almost all of the time, we are able to monitor their screens when they are on the internet. We realize that we cannot monitor their usage all of the time.

I am not as tech-savvy as I would like to be with regard to firewalls and other site-access-limiting tools. I really need to start investigating how to limit where the kids go on the internet. While I want them to utilize the great tools that are available (email, wiki, games, small business ideas, etc.), I want to protect them from crap.

What sort of rules, protection, and security would you suggest?

What software packages would you recommend?

(parents) What have you used for similar purposes?

(students) What have your parents used - and what has and has not worked?

What sort of limitations are fair, reasonable, and still safe?

Any and all ideas and suggestions are welcome.

Andy B.