Making good "snap" decisions
Digital cameras are getting less and less expensive. And kids love them because they can take pictures of their friends, their vacations, and their pets -- and post the pictures to Web sites, blog pages, Facebook pages, and more. Many sites have profile pages that allow users to upload pictures of themselves. Kids need to be able to make good judgments about what kind of pictures they post.

Ask your kids these questions
Before your kids post pictures, they should go through a quick checklist: If the picture was posted on a billboard in the middle of their school, how would they feel? If someone else's parents saw the picture, what would they think? How do you think you'll feel if someone sends that picture around in a few years? Imagine you're applying to a college you really want to go to. Is this picture going to help or hurt? Will this picture violate someone's privacy, hurt their feelings, or embarrass them?

Be the image of positivity
Photography is a fabulous way to be creative and expressive. It's also a way to share the best part of life with others. Make sure you encourage your kids to use their cameras in positive ways. Make a gallery in your home, get them great photo books, or create an online gallery site for them (Kodak, Snapfish -- there are lots of options). Celebrate their achievements.