hwl6969’s Blog

The other night my daughter (10 years old) was talking non stop on the phone with one of her friend’s when I asked her if she wouldn’t rather be chatting (typing) on the computer. Since she and her friend had never done that before she just couldn’t have been happier with my idea.

Well the next thing I had to do was to ask her friends mom if I could show her how to register and download a chat program. To my surprise she said that was fine. Better that then having her talk and tie up the phone line all night.

First I set hers up then proceeded to set up my daughters. Before I knew it they were typing away. Completely freaked out by all the new and neat things (like smiley faces and the such) on the program.

For about two hours things were really peaceful until I began to think to myself. Hmmmm I sure do hope she dosn’t get into some chat site that isn’t right for her to see or to chat in. So I cheated. I went into her settings and made it impossible (for the moment anyway) for anyone except her friend to chat with her. Even though I know that when she gets more savy on this she will be able to change those on her own but for now I was at peace with myself.

I got wrapped up in chat programs when the computer was new. And I became addicted to them. Talking every night till the wee hours of the am. Actually building up a little community of friends that I had made online. We talked about everything. (and I do mean everything). Then I began to realize that I was neglecting my family and almost living a fantasy world online. After all we all know that everyone is only 21 and perfectly built online.

After I sat in my easy chair for a while last night I began to wonder “Have I done the right thing”. Does anyone else have advise on this matter they might like to share?