Whether this is your first time online or you're a seasoned user, we've spelled out our house rules for you here. Generally speaking, these rules simply require respect and good manners. Use common sense, and you'll feel right at home.

Our specific house rules:

1. We live by words online, so we don't allow obscene, racist, or sexually explicit language. We also reserve the right to remove postings that defame or insult anyone, as well as notes that are abusive or hateful. Any harassing notes or postings that might be construed as stalking will be deleted and made available to the proper law-enforcement officials. We also reserve the right to remove notes that are off the subject or not in English.

2. No solicitations or advertisements are allowed. These include advertisements for your business or latest get-rich-quick scheme. Such notes add clutter and devalue conversation.

3. You may not suggest or encourage illegal activity. We will assist law-enforcement officials.

4. You must have copyright ownership of all material that you post on our bulletin boards and in our chats. No articles, recipes, song lyrics, art, graphics, or other material may be posted without the express written consent of the copyright holder.

5. You must respect the privacy of individuals. This means no posting of phone numbers, addresses, Social Security numbers, or any other private information.

6. Having good manners online means that you don't post the same note more than once. The online word for posting many times on one topic is "spamming." We don't allow that.

7. You participate at your own risk on the bulletin boards, in chat, and in e-mail. All auditorium chats are monitored by our staff members. You take responsibility for postings under your identification and use the information provided on this site, including in bulletin boards, chat, and e-mail, at your own risk. We take no responsibility for the content or opinions posted in bulletin boards, chat, and e-mail.

8. We reserve the right to remove any postings (although we have no duty to do so).

9. You may use D-Cards for noncommercial purposes only. You must furnish your actual e-mail address in order to send a card. Any business use, "remailing," or other high-volume application is strictly prohibited. You are not permitted to send cards using an automated program. D-Cards may not contain inappropriate language or copyrighted material (without the consent of the copyright holder) or encourage illegal activity. D-Cards that violate these guidelines will not be delivered.

10. If you see a post or receive a D-Card that you feel violates any of the above house rules, please notify the community host by e-mail. Our goal is to respond in 24 hours.

11. Communities that share our commitment to quality information and support for parents and children are welcome. Feel free to join the discussions on our topics. Please limit private conversations to e-mail.

12. By posting to any portion of this site or sending a D-Card, you agree to abide by our Terms and Conditions of Use.

13. Use good judgment, and have a wonderful time.

LAST UPDATED: 3/16/99