Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Wintervention
Being that this is the snowiest month in North Dakota history and since we've had the coldest day in 5 years. The last several years have been very warm winters. This is why I believe we are having a "Wintervention". Sort of Mother Nature's way slapping us in the face and making us realize how easy we've had it.
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Monday, December 8, 2008
Teenagers and Safe Internet Parenting
Some people wince when I tell them that our 14-year old son, Mark, has his own laptop in his room. They think that it’s like giving him the keys to the car and inviting in predators typically reserved for a “Dateline” special.
Here’s a few keys.
1. We continue to reinforce the importance of specific values like honestly and integrity. I have educated him on safe web surfing habits and have rules about what sites he is allowed to go to.
2. Just in case, I have our internet router setup to use Open DNS (http://www.opendns.com), which allows me to block sites based on content or by specific domain. I started out with the internet locked down so tightly, my beautiful wife couldn’t even shop for swim suits online.
3. I alerted the boy that I was watching and tracking everything. Then I set up a couple items to actually watch everything
a. I started by logging all his IM messages to a remote folder. This was simple to do and he can’t delete them.
b. I installed Real VNC (http://www.realVNC.com) on his PC so I could connect silently to his PC and watch what he is doing in real time.
4. We have a rule that he is not allowed to have an account unless we know the password. I actively monitor his activity, no matter how mundane it seems. This also helps me know when he breaks up with girlfriends we aren’t supposed to know about. He is also not allowed to talk with anyone he doesn’t know in real life—i.e. only students from school.
5. Randomly, I will need to “Update” his PC, at which time I can check web browser logs and ensure all the software installed is still active and working. Removing my monitoring, or bypassing the DNS setting of the router are all grounds for internet privilege revocation.
6. Lastly, all of this is contingent upon good grades and good attitude.
Since locks only keep honest people out, this is enough for our family. It focuses on good behavior and education on internet use, while giving me the tools to keep a good eye on him and correct any wayward activities.
Oh, and Mark, if you are reading this, I don’t think this site is approved for your viewing. Report yourself immediately.
Brian "Dadmin" Matthews
Follow me at http://www.twitter.com/redsneaker
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