If you have children, and they are actively using the internet, then they are likely susceptible to online dangers and inappropriate content. Supervising and controlling your child’s internet access can reduce the risks of encountering predators, cyber criminals, cyberbullying, and unsuitable behaviors.
In the 2017 Keeping Up with Generation App: NCSA Parent/Teen Online Safety Survey, the National Cyber Security Alliance found that 28% of teenagers said that their homes had no limits around their use of technology.
More than 70% of teenagers who live in households with rules believe that they work. Source: BeachAcres.org
Tips and Tricks on How to Protect Your Child’s Online Privacy
Let’s discuss some tips and tricks to keep children safe as well as protect their privacy while they are online.
The internet has greatly evolved over time. Luckily, with all of the growth and change, parental securities and protections have also evolved and improved.
Restricting Internet Access
An easy, more common approach, would be setting restrictions as to when the internet can be accessed. Kids are less likely to engage in an unhealthy online activity if a parent or adult is present.
This can be done by only allowing children to access the internet during certain times of the day. You can also set a time limit as to how long a child may be online. As a bonus, children will also begin to learn better time management skills.
Parental Control Apps
There are also a plethora of parental control apps to assist in monitoring a child’s online activities. Each app is different and varies in what settings they can offer, so it’s important to do your research. You want to make sure it is the right fit for your family’s needs.
In our family, we use YouTube Kids. YouTube Kids filters the results so that children can only access safe content. You can set a timer for watch time, create customized passwords, adjust parental controls, and so much more.
YouTube Kids also deactivates comments, so children will not see any inappropriate words or behavior. Parents set up YouTube Kids for their children and can easily restrict what can be viewed.
Talk To Your Children About
Another common tip is simply talking to your children regularly and openly. Communicate the importance of internet safety. It is viable to have open and honest conversations, including the risks of sharing personal information online.
Secure Your Home Network
Lastly, establish a password on your home wireless network Having a password on your home wireless network can assist in preventing unauthorized access and it can help monitor who is using your network.
Breaking It Down
Be aware and be cautious. But, also be open-minded.
Children are the most vulnerable and suspectable to online misbehavior and abuse. It is important to be vigilant and also does some research. Talk to your children and explore resources that will help safeguard and protect our children from harmful activity.
ALSO READ: The Impact of Technology on Children’s Sleep: How to Establish Healthy Habits
