If you have Internet access in your home, you might allow your children to go online for educational purposes or even just for fun. But don't miss the important opportunity that's available to you. The Internet can also help you and your child bond as you explore things together online. Here's how:
Have Fun Surfing the Internet Together
Just like playing ball outdoors, riding bikes, flying a kite, or playing a board game together, the Internet can also be a great tool to create a strong bond with your child. You can pull up a chair beside them and explore the fun opportunities on the Web with your child. You can participate in games, do puzzles online, research subjects your child is interested in, or even create artwork! The possibilities are endless.
The key to bonding through the Internet is to allow your child to find something fun to do, of course, only after you've taken all measures to protect them from harm while online. If your child chooses the activity, they are more likely to participate wholeheartedly. Ask them to find a game you both can play or an activity where you both can be involved.
There are great online exploration games that are similar to scavenger hunts. Then, there are educational guessing games where you must guess the word when only a few letters have been revealed or unscramble words. Some games require more skill than others, so be sure the game is age-appropriate for your child.
There are also websites geared to kids that offer a variety of activities. If not in the mood for a game, find an online shopping outlet for kids and allow your child to explore all the neat toys and products. Or, find a hobby site that your child enjoys such as a website about fishing, hunting, golf, baseball, basketball, collecting, etc. Kids love to shop online, even if they can't actually purchase anything!
If you have an older child or teen, you can download their favorite music together or rent some newly released movies online.
Software Programs for Kids
If you feel uncertain about letting your child surf the Web, there are software games and activities you can install or download to your hard drive. You can open the software and use it without actually logging in the Internet. These software programs usually cost between $10 and $40 depending on the game or item. The educational games usually offer a variety of activities bundled in one program to keep you and your child busy for a while.
Make this a Special Time
Set a certain time each day that you will do something fun together - one on one with each child if you have more than one. It doesn't have to be surfing the Internet or playing a computer game every day. You might do that once or twice a week. Other days, you can play a board game, play together outdoors, visit a local park, go for a swim if you have a pool, ride bikes, explore the woods, play ball, play dolls, etc. Let them choose the activity and go along for the fun!
A Teaching Opportunity
Doing fun activities online also gives you a chance to teach your child about Internet safety. Don't spoil all the fun, but just briefly mention safety guides occasionally as you explore the Internet together. You'll be surprised at how much your child will listen to you when you take special time with them.
Be sure to give special time to your child each day to develop a close bond that will last a lifetime. The Internet doesn't have to be a negative thing if you use it in the right way.