- 06 Feb, 2024
- 2 Comments
- 3 Mins Read
Parental Controls and Online Safety Tips for Kids
Technology and gadgets have become vital to our children’s learning journey. It is the responsibility of the parents to safeguard kids from inappropriate content, cyberbullying and other online safety issues.
This blog aims to help parents of kids aged three to thirteen know about the various parental controls and online safety tips for kids.
What are Parental Controls?
Parental controls are the set of activities and privacy settings that we can make in the devices, browsers and applications that our children use to help them have a safer online experience.
Different types of Parental Control
Create Google / Microsoft Family Group
Google and Microsoft offer Family Group creation where we as parents can control the installation, access, and monitor usage of sites and apps by our young ones.
Block Access
Parents can block specific sites and inappropriate apps for their kids by setting age and content restrictions. It is always safer to bookmark the sites that kids regularly visit and use them when needed.
Setting Time Limits
It is important to monitor the time our children spend online so that they do not get addicted to it. Parents can set time limits for access, after which the site or app will close automatically. This feature is also applicable to gaming consoles.
Content Filtering
We can make online browsing a safe experience by filtering inappropriate content for our kids by using the SafeSearch option in the browser.
Monitoring Access
For older kids, it is not possible to block access. In such cases, their activity can be monitored using Parental Control apps. When the monitoring apps are used with the knowledge of the kids, it helps maintain a sense of freedom but within permitted limits.
Online Safety Tips for Kids
Open Communication
No Parental Control app can be 100% safe. We need to spend some time with our kids to make them understand that while they have the freedom to use technology, they need to be aware of how to use it responsibly. By building this trust, kids will be comfortable coming to us even if something goes wrong.
Ground Rules
We can set the ground rules for internet usage as a family. Parents need to lead by being an example. It is not enough to just frame the rules but we need to ensure that kids understand that these rules are important for their safety.
Know their apps
We need to familiarize ourselves with the apps our kids use. This will enable us to discuss how the app is helping in their learning journey or helps them have fun. This can be easily achieved by installing the same app on our own devices and using it. We can also check reviews about the app and make informed decisions before allowing our children to use it.
Monitor Social Media Activities
Allowing our kids to use social media has both advantages and disadvantages. It is better to introduce children to apps specifically meant for their age group. Also, we need to ensure the account is kept private so strangers can’t contact them. The kids must be aware of the dangers of interacting with strangers and how it can potentially harm them.
Teach about Cyberbullying
Educating children about cyberbullying and how it can cause an emotional impact, helps them stay mindful and kind online too. Kids must also know that they can become targets and that they can always count on you when they find something uncomfortable.
It is impossible to completely prevent our kids from using the internet, but we can take steps to make it a safer place for them. The best approach is a combination of parental control, open communication, and guidance.
Do watch this video with your kids and help them have a safe online experience
Balance Children's Screen Time Educational and Productive
[…] learning session rather than aimless screen use. Modern devices come equipped with a range of parental controls that allow you to manage not just the quantity of screen time but also the quality. Use these tools […]
Is Online Class Safe for Children?
[…] 1. Parental Supervision: Parents should actively monitor their children’s online activities, especially during online classes. They should be aware of the platforms being used and set appropriate parental controls. […]