Written by Tana Fye and Sheri Crosier.
The internet can be full of wonderful possibilities and learning opportunities for children these days. However, as parents, not knowing what our children can access while on the internet can be incredibly scary. We have put together a list of things to keep in mind when it comes to internet safety for children.
1. Educate your children about the dangers of the internet. Make them aware of what information not to share. For example: full name, address, hometown, date of birth, social security number, and school. As well, be sure they know the dangers of meeting up in person with someone they met on the internet.
2. Use a content filter to block certain websites or pop up ads. Content blockers can help parents to have control over what their children view on the internet. Content blockers can eliminate videos containing violence, and other inappropriate materials that can be easily accessed on the internet.
3. Install a child-safe internet browser. Some of the top-rated child-safe browsers are: KidRex, Maxthon, and KidSplorer. Browsers like these only allow pre-approved websites and games.
4. Create a separate account on your device for your child. This can be done through both desktop and mobile devices by editing your device settings without a need for additional software. Through a separate account, child-safe browsers can also be installed, allowing a parent to lose no access to their own devices, while still protecting their children.
5. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for internet privacy and security. A VPN can secure a public WiFi hotspot, preventing cybercriminals from gaining access to unprotected content and built-in camera and microphones. This protects more than just your children, but your whole family too.
6. Talk with your kids about separating the internet from reality. Children are prone to believe most anything they see on the internet and may risk imitating the things they see. For example, the Tide Pod Challenge, the Benadryl Challenge, the Kylie Jenner Lip Challenge, and many more. While not all internet challenges are harmful to children, its important to discuss the dangers of playing them into reality.
7. Look at your children’s devices. Check out what they have been searching for on the web browser, on YouTube, and elsewhere. Look through their messenger, snapchat, and other conversations. When parents do due diligence in reviewing what their children are doing online, sometimes dangerous and harmful situations can be avoided.