Spying on Your Kids

I admit I snoop. If a piece of mail has been opened and is lying around on the couch or in the kitchen, I will peek; I am certainly not an extremist. I do not read diaries or check emails. Now, there are social networking sites that have captivated the young generation. Myspace.com is a favorite of my teenage daughter's. I have sat with her and seen her page photos and her content. There is nothing to be alarmed about. This is how she keeps in touch with friends at school and former classmates. They wish each other well and keep up with the latest gossip around campus and the old neighborhood.

My daughter used to have a cell phone, but she lost her privilege. She had a habit of letting the wrong people borrow her phone and not return the phone to her. That's a no-no. You don't want any or everyone with access to your phone number, especially when there is automatic caller ID on cell phones.

Many parents check their teen's cell phone logs and text messages. Experts like Steve Schlozman, M.D., assistant professor of psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital, say spring in kids who are well behaved can undermine their development. They need to know that they can be trusted to do the right thing. It's o.k., to set limits on their screen time and block those offensive websites. You should also block or filter unnecessary spam.

There are web-based programs that are being adopted by many schools that monitor student's activities. Parents use a password login to access their child's attendance, grades, and class rank. These programs are called Parent Connect, Edline, and PowerSchool Even though this is a good way to keep in touch with your child progress, the best way is t just ask Try to keep an open relationship with them. Talking is always better than snooping.

Experts suggest that your carpool. Kids tend to talk freely with their friends and forget you're even there. Talk with other parents letting them know your concerns. They can listen out for you. Especially if your child is a closed-lipped teen.

Talk in generals. Ask questions that are non-specific to your child. Don't criticize them. Until you see evidence of them doing wrong such as drugs, or eating disorders, don't evade their privacy. Trust your feelings.

Source: www.familycircle.com