A few times since, I have seen a new mom on playground fresh from corporate, possibly on a trial period of this new career. I observe what those other mommies must have seen in me. There is a look of uncertainty on face of an entry-level at-home mom. Perhaps it’s a mix of “Am I doing right thing (I loved my work, not to mention money and acknowledgement), “I absolutely did right thing” (the proof is toddling before me) and “How heck did I get here” (it’s a totally different world). This uncertainty is projected in facial expression as well as through actual conversation. I reflect and believe that my uncertainty mixed with a mild case of PPD must have made me real stimulating conversation. No wonder they ran opposite direction. As well, trying to bring a corporate mentality into position of at-home mom was another stumbling block. I looked at building new relationships as a strategy to accomplish and, subsequently, master. When really what it takes to build relationships with other at-home mommies is genuine honesty and a grounded sense of self. Only after that takes place and solidifies can a dash of cattiness be added. But, details on that topic are a completely different article.

The next time you encounter a corporate mommy grasping for sense of her new entry-level position, have patience and compassion. Yes, she could quite possibly start off awkward and maybe even insulting, but most likely, she wants to succeed in this new career. Mentor her in a non-invasive way and she is sure to become a great friend.

2. Make sure you know who they are chatting with online and tell them exactly why you’re concerned. Just like you want to meet their friends, get to know who they are talking to online.

tip - Kids are smart these days. They know there are nasty people in our society. Be open with them about your concerns and tell them you love them and you just don't want anything happening to them. That way, when you do get 'nosey cozy' every time they’re online, it's not a shock to their system.

Tell your child under no circumstances should they give out their name, address, phone #, or where they go to school over internet.

tip - It's natural for a kid to want to talk about those things. That's what makes up their day. Help them fight urge by working with your child on 'safe' topics to chat about; movies, music, current events, even what they are learning in school. But nothing personal.

4. Have them tell you if there are any conversations that make them feel uncomfortable and to not believe anyone they chat with when they type in "Don't Tell Your Mom or Dad..." That’s a big flag. Have them tell you about it.

5. Chatting kids should know never to meet ANYONE off of internet without checking with their parents first, whether in a separate chat room or in person. They must have a parent along and meet in a public place.

6. Tell your child they should NEVER send a picture to anyone, without your permission.

Talk with your child about setting rules for going online (time of day, length of time) and what sites and chat rooms are OK to visit. And what would happen if they break those rules.

Working together, parents and kids can make internet informative and fun, just don't make it easy for a child predator to find them.