FIRST THINGS FIRST - A WORD ABOUT WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT NAVIGATING YOUR WAY AROUND THE NET....

One of the inherent drawbacks of internet research is evaluating the validity of the information that you are reading.  Questions you should ask yourself include:  Is this information source  reputable?  Is the information itself current?  Is it accurately reported?  Is the information objective or is it presented with an unstated bias or unclear agenda?

Many sites, including this one, are the product of a "homegrown" effort and since you don't personally know the originator and his/her belief system and values you should always check and double check any information with further research.  It's a matter of common sense to trust the information from the Mayo Health Clinic or Harvard University Library more than that appearing in a personal web page, so use your own judgement when evaluating content.

Commercial sites can be an creative, well presented and generously funded, but, as always keep in mind that they are serving a dual purpose, providing information and either direct or indirect advertising.  Their primary goal is usually to gain your trust and respect and hopefully sell their product(s).  Does this mean that you should avoid commercial sites?  No, of course not - just keep in mind where they are coming from.

How about Non Profit and other Organizations?  Many are doing outstanding work and I take my hat off to them - but always take the time to research their views and their mission statements since you may be supporting something you didn't bargain for. 

It may be helpful to "bookmark" your favorite sites to make them more easily accessable and I suggested that if an article or information is especially helpful and/or hard to find that you consider printing it out (always respecting copyrights) since many sites, articles and featured information are in a state of constant change unlike a book or other printed matter.

I've done my best to screen sites that I have listed in this directory however their inclusion does not necessarily imply my endorsement, rather, it only means that when I reviewed and visited the site that it looked like it was worth digging into deeper... That's were you come in.  You call the shots as to what information is worthwhile or relevant for you.

A final word is that although you can research almost anything using your computer, it is in no way a substitute for seeing a qualified doctor or specialist face to face.  Your life and your health is your responsibility and a qualified person can be your most valuable asset in helping you to lead a healthier and happier life. 

All this having been said, I encourage you to invest the necessary time to review sites like the ones listed below.  Learn about the pros and cons, learn the lingo and the ettiquette.  Find out what is safe and what is not and how to protect your privacy and your family from anything unwanted.  Once you've done your homework  the whole world is waiting for you ... so go ahead, get your feet wet...The Surf's Up and the water is great!

MIA

INTERNET FACTS & SAFETY SITES

CYBERANGELS -Largest online safety program, ranging from safety, net scams, etc...
www.cyberangels.org

FREE ONLINE DICTIONARY OF COMPUTING
www.instantweb.com/~foldoc/contents

KID SAFETY ON THE INTERNET - THE POLICE NOTEBOOK -slide show presentation for kids,etc
www.

INTERNET BASICS & RESOURCES -Brief history, tips for parents, how to find what your looking for, common internet terms & more...
www.netparenting.com/internet_basics


A PARENTS GUIDE TO INTERNET SAFETY - FBI -English/Spanish
CYBER TIP LINE - 1-800-843-5678  "Should you become aware of the transmissions, use or viewing of child pornography while online, immediately report this to your local FBI Ofc or to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children   PH 1-800-843-5678
www.missingkids.com

SAFETY ED INTERNATIONAL -NonProfit-Net Safety, Cybersalking Help, Protecting Children, Links
www.safetyed.org/mainclouds.html

A SAFETY NET FOR THE INTERNET -What parents should know, Minimize the Risks....
www.nypl.org/branch/safety.html

USING & UNDERSTANDING THE INTERNET
www.pbs.org/uti/