This month, we bring you a special issue on online safety for kids. We present some practical solutions to keeping your kids safer in the virtual web world. Different methods work better at different age levels. While strict parental supervision with the computer located in the busiest part of the home might work with younger kids, as they become teens, it gets a lot more complicated. Social networking sites have become a big part of our teens' everyday life. These sites, texting, and other forms of electronic communication have overtaken passe modes such as picking up the phone or riding bikes to Mickey D's for a Coke and conversation.

Sometimes, I wonder if these technical advances are really advances in our society. Recently, I ran into a friend of mine. As she and I went on and on catching up like two little "Chatty Cathy's", I noticed our teens, who knew each other, were fairly quiet. They would occasionally pull their phones out and nonchalantly send a text... no doubt communicating with each other about how "chatty and weird" their moms were. Seriously though, it is important to make sure our kids are out there participating in activities and getting some "face time" for interaction with their peers. Whether it be sports, dance, theatre, chess club, or church groups, one way to make them safer online, is to make them busier offline. Of course, talking about your families' morals and values with your kids is essential, but as they get older, they do make more of their own choices. From what they listen to and view to what they choose to post online, they need to remember... you can't just hit delete and it be wiped forever from your mind.

Watch your thoughts, for they become words.
Watch your words, for they become actions.
Watch your actions, for they become habits.
Watch your habits, for they become character.
Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.
— Unknown

In an effort to become a better online resource for area moms, we are making changes to our website. We would love your thoughts and opinions...and there will be rewards! Check us out at www.just4familiesonline.com Make it a great month.