My 14 year old son spends an average of 5-6 hours a day on the Internet. Should I curb Internet time or monitor what my son is doing on the Internet?

Yes. In this age where Internet usage is becoming paramount to our lives, as parents, we must monitor our children’s use of the Internet. Have a few basic rules. The computers with Internet access should be in the main lounge area so that the child is under observation-both w.r.t. the content being viewed and the time being spent online.

Have specific allocated time and hours a week for Internet viewing. The internet (like the TV) can be addictive. Involve your child in other activities around the house, such as errands or walking the dog. Keep a balance between non-physical and physical activities.