Kids and the Internet - it's a good thing ?
Kids and the Internet - it's a good thing We read a lot of alarmist commentary about the dangers of the Internet for youngsters. How it puts kids at risk, erodes social skills, lays traps for the unwary and innocent, and contributes to the long slow spiral into illiteracy. I'm the first to admit that there are risks involved with letting kids online. In raising two children, I've had to face and circumvent the pitfalls - strangers attempting contact, enticing popups, too-good-to-be-true downloads, casino-like games. I've had to aggressively impose safeguards for my own peace of mind. Yet, from what I've seen, the educational benefits of online access are worth it. Yes, parents have to be vigilant. But the opportunities for communication and self-expression the Internet provides are bringing benefits to everyone - especially children. A 2002 survey by the Pew Internet & American Life Project details how the Internet gives kids access to information...