Technology is more prevalent in our lives now than ever before and it will only continue to grow.  Children are getting access to the internet at a much younger age now, which has parents and educators concerned about the risks involved.

Perry Elementary School counselor Kristin Wilson says it’s important for parents to talk to their children and let them know people online often aren’t who they say they are.  She says you can have thousands of Facebook “friends” but it’s possible none of them are your real friends at all.

Wilson says open communication is also key in helping kids be aware of the dangers but comfortable with sharing concerns so that if something bad does happen they will know it’s okay to come to you with their problem.

She says it’s also important for parents to remember that internet access so more readily available than you might think.  Anyone can get online with not only a computer but also cell phones, video game systems and music players.