The best advice for parents who have children going online is to only allow them to use the Internet when a parent or guardian is present. That's especially important with younger children. Realistically that may not always be possible and as children age, parents will want to allow them to explore more on their own. It's important to set some ground rules for children so that they know how to use the Internet safely. Here are some guidelines you can review with your kids:

1. Only go online when a parent is present. (Or, as children age, when Mom or Dad is in the room, or when Mom or Dad says it is OK like during designated "limited" times.)
2. Never share your email address or screen name with anyone but friends and family (and that doesn't include "friends" you meet online).
3. Do not share personal information such as your address or phone number with people you meet online.
4. Do not register on a site without parental permission.
5. There is a difference between being courteous and friendly, and being nosy, rude, or obnoxious. Enforce the rules of online civility and disengage, ignore, or block anyone who doesn't comply with these rules. 
6. Learn how to recognize inappropriate advances, whether from strangers or trusted parties. When anything happens that might be inappropriate or that makes you feel uncomfortable, notify parents immediately.