My kids are getting to the age where they're going to be using the Internet, and I want to make sure I can monitor their activity. Can anyone recommend any specific software or service that works well for this?

Thanks,
Sam

I have downloaded a freeware that logs keystrokes. I think its called KeyLogger, or something similar. I like it because it records all Instant Message conversations, even if your child/ren turn off that option in their Messenger. I haven't found anything that I like to monitor actual websites yet... I need to find one though because my daughter is almost 11 & I just know that she will start going to visit sites I don't want her to visit.

I don't use anything just now, though I may change my mind about that as my son grows older.

I think the best thing you can do to protect your kids on the internet is to keep the computer that they use in a family part of the house rather than the bedroom. We have the my son's computer in the kitchen & I'm normally around when he's using it.

I am sorry but I don't have one as of yet. My sons are on the computer only when I am home and it is in a room where I can see what they are on which is right now just certain sites that I allow. I will definently get one though as they get older.

Even with these kind of software, clever kids are able to get around it. My advice would be to set up the computer where you hang out, (living room, kitchen..) so that you can closely monitor what your child is doing on the internet. Also have a talk to your child about what things can be found on internet and what they should do if they come across something they should not have seen.

I have a question about software that monitors keystrokes or sites visited:

Would it be detected and flagged when antispyware or virus searches are done?

I agree that the best way to monitor what your child is doing is to keep the computer in clear site where anyone can walk by and see what your children are doing on it. The worst thing to do is to let the child have a computer in their room because then they will be free to go to any site they want.

I agree with MrsH's suggestion, to place the computer someplace that is not hidden, not only can you monitor what websites your child goes to but it will also discourage any plans by him or her of ever visiting any of such sites.