The internet has revolutionised our world. It has changed the way we consume our news, communicate with others and even run our businesses.
Yet, with its infinite possibilities, the internet has also become a hazardous place, especially for young children. Little ones run the risk of being exposed to undesirable content and may even end up as victims of fraud or cyber crimes. With this, it is important for parents to be able to monitor and educate their kids on internet safety to ensure they get the best experience on the internet. Here are some safety tips for parents:
Understand Online Dangers
In order to educate kids on using the internet safely, parents must first gain knowledge about the different types of dangers online. Such dangers include inappropriate content such as pornography and videos that glorify risky and illegal behaviour. Other dangers include cyberbullying and online predation, which kids can be exposed to in chat rooms and forums.
Once parents understand these dangers, they will be able to educate themselves and their children on being able to make smart decisions when surfing the internet.
Safeguarding Programs
It is not possible for parents to constantly monitor their child's internet usage on a regular basis. This is where safeguarding programs can help to protect a child from being exposed to online dangers. These programs are capable of monitoring and filtering content that go through the network, ensuring their child's safe use of the internet.
Setting House Rules
Children today are exposed to technology from a young age. So, it is easier for them to learn all the new features of the internet, some of which are safe, and some of which are not. With this in mind, parents may need to go 'old-school' when ensuring the safety of their children when surfing the internet. Right from the start, it is important for parents to set specific and clear house rules that define the expectations required of their children when surfing the internet.
Social Networking Sites
Social networking websites such as Facebook and Twitter allow your kids to share information, photos and videos of themselves online. It is possible that such photos and videos might get into the wrong hands when they are being shared by your children with their friends.
As a general rule, parents need to tell their children that they should only post photos and videos of themselves online after thinking about it and discussing it with their parents.
Online danger does exist, and is very prominent on the World Wide Web. However, with proper education and preparation, children are still able to use it safely.
Key Takeaways
While the internet can be dangerous, do not ban your children from surfing it in its entirety. Instead, work towards responsible usage.
There is no need to constantly be physically present to monitor your child, there are many helpful applications to help you check on your child’s online activities.
Although you may feel compelled to make sure your child is safe from the dark corners of the Internet, do so in a moderate manner that will not make your child feel uncomfortable.