Approximately 95% of teens now say they have or have access to a smartphone. While the internet is a great place for kids, there are some dangers that parents and guardians should look out for.
Tips for keeping your child safe online
Create a safe internet environment:
- Put the computer in an open space so you can see what they are doing online periodically. Putting a computer behind closed doors can encourage bad behavior.
- Talk with your child about the opportunities and the dangers online.
- Set clear rules such as “no giving out your name or personal information” and “no chatting with strangers.”
- Limit how long your child can be online at one time. If you would not allow a child to be out late at night, why would you allow them to be online at 2 a.m.?
- Look into parental controls for your home computer.
Keep them safe online:
- Spend time with your child online. Ask questions about what they are doing and look at their social network pages.
- Know who your kids are hanging out with online.
- Set a good example for your children. Parents who view inappropriate things online can leave traces for their children to find later.
- Urge children to alert you if they encounter something or someone on the internet that makes them feel uncomfortable.
- Talk to other adults, teachers and parents and find out what has worked for them for keeping children safe online.
- Review your child’s internet history on the Internet browser.
- Learn more about filtering and monitoring tools to protect your child online.
Content Credit: Kid’s Matter Inc. http://kidsmatterinc.org