When to Worry
There are a number of signs that may signal a problem with your online child. You know your child better than anyone else, so don't rely on this as your only guide. Follow your instincts!
Screen Switching
If your child quickly changes screens or turns off the monitor when you come into the room, it is likely they are viewing something they don't want you to see. Be calm and ask them to move so that you can view the screen.
Odd Phone Calls
If your child suddenly begins receiving phone calls from strange adults (or even other children) you may have a problem. Install a caller ID program to determine where the calls are coming from and ask your child to explain them.
Odd hours of the night
If your child is up typing away in the wee hours of the night he may be chatting online. This activity should be reserved for times and places that are supervised.
Sudden influx of cash
If your child suddenly has more cash than can be accounted for, or shows up in unfamiliar clothing or with gifts that you can't explain - pedophiles often spend a great deal of money cultivating a relationship with a child.
Unusually upset at an Internet interruption
It is not normal to cry to be overly upset when the Internet goes down for an hour or two.
Withdrawal from family or friends
Pedophiles work very hard to drive a wedge between children and the people who support and care for them. The larger the gap between the child and his family, the easier it is for a predator to create a relationship.
Handling Problems WITH Your Child
Don't Panic!
Getting hysterical or making accusations will not help the situation. It is your job as the adult to remain calm and to try to figure out what has gone wrong - and a solution to the problem too!
Talk to Your Child
Ask, not accuse, your child about the problem. Give them a chance to explain their point of view before you tell them yours.
Screen Switching
If your child quickly changes screens or turns off the monitor when you come into the room, it is likely they are viewing something they don't want you to see. Be calm and ask them to move so that you can view the screen.
Odd Phone Calls
If your child suddenly begins receiving phone calls from strange adults (or even other children) you may have a problem. Install a caller ID program to determine where the calls are coming from and ask your child to explain them.
Odd hours of the night
If your child is up typing away in the wee hours of the night he may be chatting online. This activity should be reserved for times and places that are supervised.
Sudden influx of cash
If your child suddenly has more cash than can be accounted for, or shows up in unfamiliar clothing or with gifts that you can't explain - pedophiles often spend a great deal of money cultivating a relationship with a child.
Unusually upset at an Internet interruption
It is not normal to cry to be overly upset when the Internet goes down for an hour or two.
Withdrawal from family or friends
Pedophiles work very hard to drive a wedge between children and the people who support and care for them. The larger the gap between the child and his family, the easier it is for a predator to create a relationship.
Don't Panic!
Getting hysterical or making accusations will not help the situation. It is your job as the adult to remain calm and to try to figure out what has gone wrong - and a solution to the problem too!
Talk to Your Child
Ask, not accuse, your child about the problem. Give them a chance to explain their point of view before you tell them yours.
