Common Sense Says: It\'s easy to see why tweens and teens like this sort of instant communication -- and it\'s easy to see why it freaks parents out. The short answer is that\'s it\'s probably fine for your son to IM, as long as you\'re willing to set some rules of the road.

1. You get to see IMs. Ideally, the computer should be in a central location. If not, then tell kids that their doors must remain open while the computer is on. Set up parent controls (which you can find on your Internet service provider\'s home page), and police your kids\' buddy lists.

2. Set time limits. And make sure that kids know that they can\'t IM while they’re doing homework.

3. Reinforce safety rules. Make sure that kids know how to keep themselves Internet safe and smart. Remind them not to reveal any personal information or to ever meet a stranger.

4. Establish codes of conduct. Talk to your kids about online etiquette, too -- and that IMs are not the place to talk trash or spread rumors.

For more, download our free Internet Survival Guide for Parents.