I Don't Read My Child's Diary, So Why Would I Monitor Them Online?

Your child's personal diary is one thing, but the Internet is altogether a different animal and it's your job to provide the first line of defense.

There are sexual predators out there right now and your daughter may accidentally find yourself involved in something that she just isn't mature enough to deal with.

Now, does that mean that you should tell your child your monitoring their online activity?

That depends on the type of relationship you have with your child. Some children will mind because they've got nothing to hide, while others (usually a bit older - and paradoxically more at risk) are more likely to resent the invasion of privacy.

You must explain to your children you are not trying to invade their privacy but rather watch out for their welfare.

Also remind them that there is no such thing as anonymity or privacy on the Internet. By design isn't insecure medium. Remember, any communication can be incepted by anyone along the way.