Technology is changing fast and that means parents have to change with it.
You could get a shock if you looked through your child's text messages these days.
There's a new trend called "sexting." It's when someone sends a sexually-suggestive text message with nude photographs to others' cell phones. Teenagers who forward these texts of unclothed minors could face child pornography charges and could even be put on the state's sex offender list.
Watch and learn more about 'sexting' on on these links:
Sexting growing problem in teens
Sexting impacts Tri-State teens
Local school fights sexting problem
Many teenagers don't realize the dangers that could lurk on the net and on cell phones. But there are some things parents can do to make sure their children are sending clean messages.The first thing is to have open communication with your child. Talk to your teenager about sexting and explain the dangers.
Know what your child is doing.
Michelle Lukavsky, Keokuk High School Principal said, "Some of the things parents can do with internet and cell phones is be aware of what is in those cell phones and be aware of what your cell phone can do."
Experts suggest doing spot checks on your teenagers' cell phones, facebook and e-mail accounts. Some parents may feel they may be violating their children's privacy, but this should be part of the agreement with your teenagers when you give them cell phones.
If you find something or suspect a problem, protect your teenager with fewer privileges. Consider not buying a phone with camera options or limit or eliminate the texting feature if the privilege is abused.
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