People who live in the world of Instant Messaging and text messaging, namely teens, have created a whole new Internet language, or net lingo. If you have the need or occasion to check your teen’s IM account or cell phone text messages, it’s important that you’re savvy about the shortened language they use, and can understand its meaning. You’ll be able to tell if they are hiding something or exchanging inappropriate information.

Not sure if you want to be that nosy?

Remember, you are the parent and your teen needs you to be an active part of his/her life. While computers and technology offer wonderful ways to stay connected, they can also create a dangerous playground, complete with people who do not have the best intentions. Act as if the computer is your home phone line. Would you let your teen talk to people that are not known to you? Would you let your teen spend hours in conversations with several people at a time without knowing the main purpose of all those calls? If you answer “No”, then you ought to consider the IM contacts the same way. Know who is contacting your child, when, and what is the general reason for the contact.

Go to TheAntiDrug.com’s section on Net Lingo for more information.