1. Learn how to manage your kids' online lives. Check site histories, set appropriate age filters, and check out the parental controls on your browser. Teach your kids the basics of safe searching (Google has a safe-search setting), and give them a digital code of conduct for what is and is not appropriate and safe. Don't let them figure it all out by themselves.

2. Play a videogame with your kid. With your child, play a non-violent, family-friendly dance or music video game. Play a sports game on the Wii. The best way to keep kids away from violent or inappropriate games is to enjoy time with you in a fun family way with media and non-media activities.

3. Create a contract. Decide as a family where media time - TV, Web, Im’ing, texting, phone - fits into your life.  Write up a contract (see sample here). Be in control, supervise and ask questions; have your child do the same.

4. Check out YouTube. Your kids have -- probably when they were looking for something funny. So go to the comedy section, find something you like, and surprise them.

5. Limit: don’t let media replace life.  Whatever method you use, take control of the TV.  Have your children make choices about what they actively want to see. Don't let them engage in mindless watching that can contribute to lack of activity, non-nutritional eating, and watching shows that are not age-appropriate.

6. Visit an online social networking site. See what the fuss is all about. Embrace their enthusiasm, but educate yourself and them about what goes on.  Ask them to show you their pages and engage in open conversation. Agree on personal boundaries and rules of respect for self and others.