When it comes to your children, like most parents you’d do anything you can to keep them safe, and in the world they’re growing up in this can sometimes seem more and difficult to do.
However, it’s important for parents to remember that the world is actually a lot safer than it was 30 or 40 years ago, it’s just that we now know what’s going on everywhere because we have more technology that allows to us to get information quickly, such as the internet and social media – and much of the mainstream media likes to only feed us with the negative news out there, so it can certainly seem like the world is a scary place.
Of course, that doesn’t mean that precautions shouldn’t be taken when it comes to children, and especially when they’re going to be using the internet or getting a phone, so in this post we’re going to share with you how to keep your child safe online.
Communicate:
Communication is one of the best skills you can ever have, and being able to communicate with your child about things like safety or having other difficult conversations with them about things that are perhaps uncomfortable for you is really crucial to helping them understand that it’s not them who you don’t trust, but other people, and that you simply want the best for them. When communicating with your child the dangers that exist online, you should be speaking to them, not at them or down to them, and it’s important that you let them know that they can and should always come to you with any problems – even if it’s embarrassing for them.
Monitor use:
Technology isn’t all bad, and this is proven through the invention of apps and software that allow you to monitor the devices your child is using. You can do things like track their location, check what they’re looking at online, and view things like social media activity and even text messages. There are multiple places you can buy iPhone Monitoring online, for example, so it’s really just about finding the right one for you. However, it’s important to remember that this should only be done with your child’s knowledge, otherwise it’s a complete invasion of privacy, and if they find out about it, you can be assured they will never trust you with anything.
Set ground rules:
As much as trust and communication are essential, it’s important to remember you’re still the parent and the rules you set are the ones they have to follow, so if you’re considering getting them a laptop for school work, it’s important to set rules around how this should be used. Or if they want a phone, you can state that it shouldn’t be used during school hours, what social media apps they’re allowed, etc.
Stay eductaed:
Education is always the best way to combat something you’re afraid of or don’t understand, so when it comes to safety online, then it’s a good idea to stay on top of what’s happening in the world in terms of new social media apps, trends and what children may be looking at online.