Instant Messaging (IM)

How can I make it safer?

Set the expectation that children's online activity will be supervised, as the Internet is a public place.
Discuss with children the qualities of healthy and unhealthy friendships. Talk to children about those people who aren’t being “nice” online and how to handle these types of situations.
Teach students about adding friends only if they have already met the individual in person (i.e. they have exchanged email addresses with friends over the phone or in person).
If students come across something or someone that makes them feel uncomfortable, explain that they can tell you without fear of losing computer privileges even if it seems to be coming from friends.