Now that the Jessi Slaughter situation is passed us, it might be a good time to discuss the parenting issues associated with this sad story. If you haven’t heard, Jessi Slaughter (real name Jessica Leonhardt) is an eleven year old child whose indecent You Tube videos have caused quite a stir. In these videos you can find her saying such things as, “I will buy a glock, stick it in your mouth and make a brain slushy” or “Get AIDS and die”.
If you haven’t seen Jessi Slaughter’s videos:
One of the most baffling things I found in this whole story was Jessi Slaughter’s mother denying any responsibility to her child’s behavior, saying that 1) she refuses to watch the video 2) she doesn’t believe her child is IN the video and 3) Her child is always getting in trouble (set up if you will) for actions she didn’t commit.
If you’re thinking what I’m thinking, this mother needs a little dose of the Nanny… and child protective services.
How to Have a Web-Friendly Home
Although this is an extreme case, this might be the perfect time to make sure everything is a-ok in your house. You can do this by asking yourself the following questions:
Is the computer in a visible place with lots of traffic?
Keeping a computer in a visible place like the living room or family room keeps your child out of trouble. The chances that they will look at things they shouldn’t see, or do things they shouldn’t do is minimized. If they do see something they shouldn’t, you’d have a better chance of catching it – not to scold – but to use that moment as a lesson in communication.
Does my child use a webcam? If so, what for?
Webcams are great tools for communicating with loved ones, friends and business contacts. Children could have even more fun making videos of them singing and dancing, however, sites like Youtube state a child must be 13 years of age to post a video. As a parent, you’re responsible for ensuring that your child isn’t using their webcam inappropriately.
Have I checked the history lately?
Before you get huffy about this question, take a moment and think about it. I realize that most people trust their child, and for most they believe their child is an angel. Which is great – if your child has nothing to hide then you should find nothing in their history. Don’t make a big deal out of it – just check the history periodically – and ask questions about the sites your child is viewing. Ask your child to share links with you and start to share with them to have a sense of the places they are going. Stumbleupon is a great way to find age appropriate links your child will love.
Have I seen any behavioral changes in my child?
Walking up and finding out your child is basically Satin – doesn’t happen overnight. Look for behavioral cues, inappropriate language, irritability, stress and ask about it. They might not want to talk about but keep asking or have a sibling ask. If the behavioral issues become out of line – discipline the child – make it clear that that attitude is not appropriate but also make it very clear that you’re there if they need you.
The most important part is that you know your child. Don’t deny that your child might be acting inappropriately – make sure it isn’t happening. Don’t forget to keep the lines of communication open. Ask your child over dinner how their day was, every day, no matter how busy and rushed you are – sometimes that’s all you need to let them know you care.
YOUR THOUGHTS?
How would you react if you found your child ranting inappropriately on Youtube? Do you watch over your child’s internet behavior?
