As parents, we try to do everything we can to keep our children safe and free from harm. Although this is not always easy, it is something that needs to be done. This is especially true when it comes to the internet, which can be both a great place and a horrible one all at once. With everything that is available online, children can easily fall victim if they are not properly monitored. If you would like to know how to monitor your child’s internet activity, the following tips can help.

1. Set up Accounts with Your Child

If your child wants to set up an account on a certain website, make sure you are right there beside them. Keep a list of every username and password your child uses so you can always login to websites and check activity if need be. Even if it is a website that seems harmless, it is a good idea to know their login information just in case.

2. Use a Shared Email Address

Another way to monitor your child’s internet activity is to use a shared email address. If you and your child use the same address, it will be easy to see what they are up to. Also, they will probably me much less likely to try anything risky because they know you will find out. Additionally, if anyone sends your child a suspicious email, you can address it right away.

3. Avoid Private Computers

It is a good idea to keep the computer your child uses in a main room. If your child knows you are only steps away, chances are they will not try anything that could compromise their internet time. Private computers and laptops raise the risk of improper activity, as kids think their parents will never find out what is going on.

4. Do a Periodic Check of the Browsing History

Although you may feel like a pesky parent, doing a periodic check of your child’s browsing history can be a great way to monitor the websites they are visiting. Most internet browsers keep track of websites that have been visited for up to a month.

5. Log In to Your Child’s Accounts Regularly

Let your child know that you plan on logging into all of their accounts on a regular basis. If they are aware that you will be doing so, they will probably be less likely to engage in any inappropriate behavior.

6. Keep an Open, Honest Relationship

As kids get older, they can easily learn how to cover up any suspicious activity online. It does not take much to set up a new email account or clear the browsing history. Try to keep an open relationship with your child and let them know you are always there for them to talk to. An open relationship will reduce the chance of your child going behind your back.

7. Purchase Software

If you are having major issues with your child’s internet activity, there is software available that will monitor everything your child does online. Although this may seem like an extreme step, many parents may feel it is necessary for keeping their children safe.

8. Pay Attention to Credit Card Bills

Some websites cost money and require a credit card in order to create an account. Pay close attention to all of your credit card bills and watch for any activity that looks suspicious. Hopefully your child knows not to use your credit cards without permission, but it is still a good idea to pay attention.

All of these tips will help you monitor your child’s activity online. Hopefully if you maintain an open, honest relationship with your child you will never have to worry, but you can never be too careful in today’s world.

Guest post from Karen Schweitzer. Karen writes about internet providers for Internetserviceproviders.org.