You cannot keep your kid off the internet for long. They learn about it in school and are exposed to the many wonders of the online world. All their friends are on social media, so they want to be there too. They’ll want to utilize online resources for academic purposes and access the various entertainment channels everybody keeps talking about.
The internet is a vast space where kids can easily get lost and wander to the dark side. However, proper guidance and parental control can keep them on the right track, as well as encourage them to make the best of this facility. Learning to use the internet from a young age has major benefits, which can easily override the drawbacks.
Here’s how you can keep your kid safe on the internet and emphasize its positive aspects:
Internet Safety Tips for Parents
1. Provide a Secure Internet Connection
2. Educate your Child about Online Threats
3. Introduce them to Safe Platforms
4. Review Apps and Websites They Use
5. Limit Screen Time
6. Be a Good Role Model
7. Protect them with Technology
- Provide a Secure Internet Connection
A secure internet connection will encrypt your data so that it is not visible or easily accessible to people outside your private network. The internet service by Xfinity prevents you from accidentally visiting risky or corrupt sites and stops third parties from stealing your information.
It is vital to look into the security features of an internet provider before signing up. If you are unsatisfied with the safety options of your current service, contact Xfinity customer service for a thorough comparison. A secure internet connection will keep your kid off untrusted sites, which is a big step towards keeping them safe online.
- Educate your Child about Online Threats
There’s no point in sheltering your child from the negative aspects of the internet. Educating them about common risks and threats can prepare them for worst-case scenarios. Your child must know what to do in case they feel intimidated or targeted by an online entity.
If your child insists on joining an online community that is inappropriate for their age, explain the undesired consequences rather than telling them ‘no’. Your child must understand the concept of a digital footprint and be aware of online scams. Tell them about phishing, identity theft, and other crimes that can lead to potential harm.
- Introduce them to Safe Platforms
Once your child is acquainted with the internet, introduce them to safe online platforms that shall keep them occupied. A child who is left to their own devices is more likely to approach dangerous territory. Suggest websites and apps that align with your child’s interests, whilst protecting them from explicit and offensive content.
When you present a variety of fun activities to choose from, the child won’t have the time or head space to explore further. However, the child may lose interest in certain apps over time, so take note of their varying inclinations and introduce more options accordingly.
- Review Apps and Websites They Use
Children should be given every chance to express themselves and have a good time; nonetheless, you have every right to monitor their online activity. You can do this subtly so that they don’t feel suffocated or suspected. If your child is using an app you don’t trust, do your research before you reprimand them.
You may take a look at online reviews, and use the application yourself to eliminate or confirm your suspicions. If you want your child to stop using a website or application, you must approach them with concern rather than getting angry. Try to provide a safer alternative rather than entirely depriving them of something they enjoy.
- Limit Screen Time
While it’s impractical to forbid your child from using the internet, limiting their screen time is reasonable and even important. Excessive exposure to digital media can take a toll on their mental health and well-being. Two hours of screen time per day is standard for children between five and ten years of age.
You must specify a time of the day for using the internet, and confiscate their devices after the time is up. If your child asks to use the internet a bit longer for educational purposes, monitor their activities and encourage them to utilize the allowed time more efficiently.
- Be a Good Role Model
Children learn from their parents, so try to set a good example. If your child sees you aimlessly scrolling on your phone for hours on end, they’ll assume it’s a healthy habit. If you don’t want your child using a particular app, refrain from using it yourself when they’re around.
If you want your child to be okay with limited screen time, let it apply to you too. For example, put your devices away while you’re spending time with the family or having dinner.
- Protect them with Technology
You can keep your children safe on the internet by keeping their devices up-to-date and installing effective anti-virus software. Similarly, ensure all apps they use are running on the latest version because updates include security patches. When your child has access to a laptop, disable or cover the webcam while it’s in their use.
If your child has social media accounts, adjust their privacy settings in a way that they can only interact with trusted contacts in their network. You can also change browser settings to restrict access to certain websites and block tracking cookies from third-party sites.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your kid safe on the internet gets easier when they consider you a friend and you’re aware of everything going on in their lives. Talk to your child, engage them through fun online activities, and be understanding of their tendencies.
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Eamon