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What Can You Do About It? We have to teach our children that many people on the Internet have biases & prejudices that clash with our values. It's a good time to explain what your values are & to explain why you believe what you do. A solid grounding like this is your best weapon against others trying to sway your children's opinions. When our children are exposed to outrageous bigotry & hatred online or anywhere else, we can help them understand the dangers of prejudice & the importance of diversity & tolerance. The more they have a chance to talk & share ideas with other children around the world, the more they will learn how alike we all are. Mark Twain put his finger on it when he said: "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, & narrow-mindedness." On the Internet, our children travel the world every day. We need to make sure that they understand that they are truly part of the global community, & learn to celebrate the differences & diversity the global community represents rather than mock them. Point out faulty expectations & prejudices with your children by asking them what they think the person they're talking to online is like. Then give them alternative descriptions telling them that the person is fifty, not fifteen, male, not female, & of a different race. Ask them how that changes things-and why. This may be a good way to start to teach them about prejudice & stereotypes. Also, you should discuss hurtful & hateful things when they happen and: teach your children how much discrimination hurts |