The Computer is a Great Tool for Homeschooling Families

The Familyman
Todd Wilson, Familyman Ministries

Let me just jump in and say that the computer is a great tool for homeschooling families. We use it for typing, piano, math, and grammar. The computer allows our children to learn at their own pace and get hands on instruction. . .sometimes from a person who is a whole lot smarter than us.

Let me also jump in and say that the computer is dangerous and should not be trusted. I constantly have parents write me and share horrible stories of how their sons and daughters have been caught in its snare.

These are some of the lessons I have learned from them. Never allow your children unsupervised time on an Internet connected computer. Don't ever assume that your son or daughter is just doing online school. Don't ever assume that they won't go poking around sites they shouldn't be viewing. Don't ever assume that it won't creep into your house.

Make sure you have controls, filters, guards, and passwords on your computer. One dad told me how his son would sneak down at night and get on the Internet while they were asleep.

How does something like that start? Just a little bit at a time. It begins by doing a research paper and stumbling across something "bad." The first time or two they resist. . .but later on, they might just take a "click." The next thing you know, they're in over their head.

I'm telling you Mom and Dad, the computer that is hooked up to the Internet is a possible pathway to death.

I know it sounds like I'm making a big deal over nothing, but when you hear horror story after horror story it changes your perspective.

Yes, use the computer. . .but be careful. Don't assume that it's safe. . .because it is not. Take precautions, train your children to flee temptation, and view your computer like a potential family destroyer.