Parental controls can help limit how much time kids spend on the computer. Here are some tips for setting up parental controls:

  1. Install a parental control software on your computer. There are many different programs available, and each has its own set of features and advantages. Some of the more popular programs include NetNanny, CyberPatrol, and PCMatic Parental Control.
  2. Set up time limits for different activities on the computer. You can set a time limit for how long kids can be online, for how long they can use the internet browser, or for how long they can play specific games or videos.
  3. Monitor activity using parental control software or online reports. This will help you to keep track of what your kids are doing on the computer and when they’re spending too much time online.
  4. Remove access to the internet if necessary. If you need to restrict access to certain websites, you can do this by setting up a filter in your internet router or by using a parental control software program to block specific websites from being accessed. ..

While it is great to have your children use and learn the latest technology, spending too much time with video games and surfing the Web can be unproductive.  Ultimately it is the parent’s responsibility to monitor their children’s activities but today’s tip will show you how to utilize a great tool in Vista to help out.  This feature of Vista actually allows you to control the time a user can access their account.

Open Control Panel and click on Set up parental controls for any user.

Next, choose your kids account … or whoever you want to limit time on.

Make sure Parental Controls are on then click on Time Limits under Windows Settings.

Now simply select the the schedule for time allowed on the Internet and when it will be blocked then click OK.  That is all there is to it!

While you child is logged into their account there will be an icon in the lower right corner by the clock showing Parental Controls are enabled.  Also, as the time gets closer for them to get off the computer, balloon notifications will appear in periodically telling them how much time is left.