The Internet is an incredible draw for kids, from games to homework or research projects to even meeting with friends and an invaluable resource for modern times. However, it’s also a dangerous space to spend time.
However, as technology is constantly evolving and changing, the guidelines for protecting children remain the same as offline. According to Jenny Simpson, a former social work teacher at the Open University’s Faculty of Wellbeing, Education & Language Studies, positive parenting is the key to a successful life. Here are seven of the best strategies to help keep your kids secure on the Internet.
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1.) A positive parenting style is crucial.
It is only possible to drive kids around for as long before you must let them ride the bus on their own. According to Jenny, the same rules apply to children and youngsters online.
Maintain a dialogue open with your children. Let them play in a secure environment, then discuss the activities they’re taking part in and let them know that they are free to visit you and speak to you about everything. Train them to be secure and confident online, and establish sensible limits.
The practice of positive parenting has stood the test of time. And even as the technology and the online platforms evolve, the methods we raise children – creating good communication lines openness, honesty, and love – remains the same.
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2.) Develop good online habits and set the example
In addition to talking with your children about the Internet, you must set an example. Begin by sitting together, browsing the web together, discussing the information you discover, and asking them questions about the headlines they read and their beliefs that they consider to be the truth.
The more you spend time together, the better you’ll be able to understand the ways your child makes use of the Internet. Keep it conscientious. Use the Internet the way you want your children to use it safely and responsibly and set the standard.
3.) Factors that influence age and development
Children can browse the Internet and play games online beginning as young as 3 or four years old. In this age, the Internet and other devices such as tablets can benefit development, aiding children to grasp shapes, colors, numbers, and letters through an interactive method. Set parental controls to ensure that younger youngsters don’t see something they shouldn’t, and relax and surf the Internet with their parents.
Adolescence is typically a period of exploration and learning how to navigate the world, especially regarding identities and relationships; it’s all part of their development to become an adult. It is possible to help by setting appropriate parental controls, bookmarking frequently used websites on your family device, and talking to your children about their online activities. When a child is entering the adolescent stage, it is a chance to engage in a cyber discussion’ and establish limits with your children.
4.) Set parental control, but do not forget to talk to your kids.
There’s a variety of technologies, tools, and apps available that can assist in keeping children secure on the Internet. But don’t make it a point of limiting their use. Although there are applications available to shut the wifi at home off at night while you’re eating out, be aware that there is an equilibrium to be achieved.
Children may find other methods of accessing the Internet outside of their homes. This may be via the use of their friends’ mobile phones and in public spaces such as the library in your area. So, it’s crucial to ensure that your child is as secure online while away from home they are in it. This is a delicate balance between using apps and putting your faith in your child.
Create it as an event for the whole family
Teach children how to navigate the web Bookmark frequently used safe websites so that they don’t have to go searching and be distracted by ads and pop-ups. Create playlists for the kids and music accounts: research together and test apps on one another. The more you utilize the Internet as a family and discuss it. In fact, the more secure kids will feel about experimenting with confidence.
Jenny advises: “Sit down, get engaged with them on the Internet, and teach you how online functions. Talking about headlines, if they trust the information they read, and how to determine what’s reliable. Discuss how, when, and with whom you communicate information. Moreover, A good rule of thumb is to encourage your child to introduce you to people they meet on social media. In fact, This will enable you to determine whether the relationship that’s growing is real or not.”
Agree on a screen name/username/nickname for your children to use online. Be sure to emphasize the importance of not divulging personal information or anyone else. Never to strangers.
Report suspicious activity
Be aware that you’re not the only one. There’s plenty of information on safe internet usage and numerous ways you and your kids can report suspicious activities. If there’s anything you don’t like or feel uncomfortable about the conduct of others on the Internet. Make sure you report it. You can directly report the incident to the site you’re using and various third-party organizations. If you’d like to know more, check out this blog written by top researchers in the field of parenting in an age of digital technology.
There isn’t a normal victim.
Research has shown that those at risk offline are also vulnerable online, claims Jenny. And who can tell an event or moment of vulnerability in the life of a child? According to Sonia Livingstone, one of the top researchers in this area. Anything that can harm children can be found online and is amplified by the ease of access. Communicating with children and explaining that they can come to you in an issue. It is the best method to ensure their safety.
