Parents- Make Google Work for You!

Creating a Google Alert

One fantastic tool for your digital parenting arsenal is the "Google Alert."  The Google Alert was originally created for consumers to monitor the Web for new content on a specific topic.  To create an alert,  first decide on the search criteria, then enter a few more parameters about the search results.  Once complete, the alert will notify the user if new information appears on the Web fitting the search criteria.

What does this mean for parents?  Well,  parents can create an automatic search engine that will notify them when any type of media is tagged with their child’s name.  In the age of digital parenting, this type of tool is a must.  And better yet, it is free.

Here is how you do it:

1. Go to www.google.com/alerts

2. Enter your child’s name in the first search field.  Use quotes to make sure the name is searched as a complete phrase and not separate words.

3. In the "Result type" field, select "Everything."

4. In the "How often" field, select the frequency by which you would like to receive notifications.

5. In the "How many" field, select "Only the best results"

6. In the "Deliver to" field, type in the email address to which the notifications will be sent.

7. If your child has a commonly used nickname, you may want to create an alert for that name as well.

If you need any further assistance or have questions,  please email me [email protected] or visit my Website www.transparentlyteaching.com.