Web-based video camera services are allowing parents to keep an eye on their kids all day even when they're at work.
by John Kovacevich
At first glance, it may seem like another example of reality-television culture run amok. With Web cameras in place at day care centers across the country, many children now have their most trivial daily activities recorded and transmitted across the Internet.
But with most parents working, these Web cameras provide a way for moms and dads to stay connected with their children during the day. At the same time, they ensure a level of oversight and accountability.
"Parents love it," says Bruce Loften, President of WatchMeGrow, http://www.watchmegrow.com which provides Web camera services for parents. "It's especially great for parents who travel. It doesn't matter what time zone they are in, they can log on, go back to a specific time of day, and see their child in action."
Day Care under the Lens - Since their introduction in 1996, WatchMeGrow has installed their service in childcare centers across the United States and Canada. When parents sign up, they receive a password that allows them to go on line anytime from any PC with an Internet connection and observe their child as the child plays, naps, and interacts with others.
Many care givers welcome the cameras. "Many teachers tell us that they like the cameras because it helps parents understand how hard they're working to take care of their child," says Loften.
And it's just the beginning. A host of new services are being offered to keep parents connected. For example, WatchMeGrow is offering a new paging system, in which parents will be supplied with pagers so that day care center can communicate with them.
"Working parents can be hard to reach they are in meetings or out of the office. This is another tool to keep parents connected," says Loften.