Internet parenting suggestion/advice?

Question

He is gifted and very smart, but this suprised me. He also has a 40% best answer in the politics category. He has always been a little obsessed with politics. I restricted him from watching CNN because he was going to bed at night worried about the war, solving world peace, etc. He said he likes Yahoo answers because he can "do something" about political issues here. Should I restrict him from Yahoo or just monitor him?

Answer 1

Just monitor him to make sure no one abuses him or that he does not get into conversations where someone want to meet him.

We need to encourage our children to be active in politics.  It is the apathy of Americans that has allowed many of the ethical issues with our politicians to come about.  Every citizen should be active in politics.  Just explain it is great to be a concerned citizen but not to become disillusioned by not being able to control the world.

Who knows, he/she may be a future President!

One thing to explain would be if you are going to discuss politics to always talk about issues and never personally attack a person or a politician.  If we show through sites like Yahoo that we do not want the negativity we see in the politicians,perhaps we can lead by example!  Tell them if someone personally attacks them for their views, to either ignore them, answer them by pointing out that you are speaking of issues and will not lower yourself to personal attacks and if they cannot do the same, to talk to someone else.  Then if they personally attack again, report them to the yahoo answers staff.

Be happy you have a child that is concerned for more than just themselves!  They should be congratulated!

Answer 2

I'd say continue to monitor him. It is great that your son has his own opinions and values and that others are taking him seriously. Especially considering, I assumed most people in the politics section were adults! He is obviously acting mature enough to get chosen as the best answer and, as a parent, I'd be proud! I agree, you don't want your son to worry or become obsessed. I'd just monitor and maybe limit his time on Yahoo answers.