As a long-time Internet user, and a web page writer, I am often asked what my recommendations are for protecting children from the negative elements of the Internet. The Chat Rooms are too tempting - for everyone in the family, not just kids.
Kids waste an amazing amount of time typing nonsense to one another.
Teach your child how to use search engines and to narrow a search. My favorite is AltaVista - which is easy to use. Talk to your child about online predators and about giving out personal information. Tell your child that they should be using the Internet for emailing friends and family, and for educational research. Check up on where your child has traveled in Cyberspace.