Internet use has become a fundamental part of adults’ and children’s lives. As parents, we can no longer assume that all is well when our children handle online activities. Parents should be aware that despite the key advantages of using the internet, our children are bound to be exposed to the vices too.

In the quest to get desired information, advanced communication, and entertainment, it is a fundamental duty to create safety measures to protect children. Online safety is crucial, especially as our children continue to become independent and are allowed to own smartphones. So the big question is, how can a parent ensure their kids are safe without interfering with their space but still allowing their children some level of independence, especially for those teen years? Is it possible to follow what your child is up to? Do you know any actions to elude cyberbullies from affecting your youngsters?

This article has tips that should enable parents to maintain child safety while embracing having tech-savvy kids. Not all is lost; you can still enjoy the good and keep the bad away. Therefore, here are some pointers.

Closely Monitoring Your Child’s Online Activity

One of the most crucial ways of ensuring your child’s safety is by monitoring their browsing history and general social media practice. You must be keen to ensure the child is only accessing healthy content on the internet. This helps determine whether they are involved in inappropriate internet practices. This should be done under the full knowledge of your child for it establishes that you are not being a spy.

Enlightening the Child about Safety Online Practice

As a parent, you need to openly discuss internet dangers with your child. You should explain to them why there is a requirement of protecting private information like name, location (address), and institution of learning, among others. Your child should know that hackers or dangerous people may use the private details to harm or target them for some unpleasant tasks. There is a need for your child to be sensitised about safety precautions by being careful when exchanging data online with their friends such as photos and conversing with people they don’t know. You must be keen that the child asks for permission before installing applications from the internet.

Creating Guidelines for Use of Device

Parents must set guidelines to be followed by their children when using mobile phones, tablets, computers or laptops. Rules will help determine safe use of the internet by your child. There must be guidelines on time specifics for access to the internet. Parents must restrict children from using the internet when doing homework, having meals, or during bedtime. You should encourage your child to engage in outdoor games and activities such as playing football, nature exploration, reading books, among several other activities. These rules should not be forcefully applied. Proper guidelines will ensure your child enjoys online activities responsibly without affecting their personal growth.

Making Good use of Parental Control Software

Parents need to restrict their children’s access to unpleasant contents, on those which don’t match what children need to know. Software will enable you to oversee your child’s online activity and help you set the limit for device usage. These software have features for cyber security by assisting in controlling child’s internet usage.

Other software apps, such as https://setapp.com/how-to/enable-two-factor-authentication, can enable parents to set up 2FA (two-factor authentication) to ensure their child’s device is safe from any security threat. For anyone to log into your child’s device or account, they must have a code to gain access. This prompt pops up on your linked devices, updating you on suspicious activities. Therefore, you are aware of every move your child makes, and you can keep them from being victims of cyber attacks. It is paramount to closely monitor your child’s digital footprints.

Having Open Communication with the Child

Having clear and free discussion is very essential in ensuring cyber security for your child  when using the internet. Creating a safe atmosphere helps them feel comfortable discussing their online activities and experiences. Your child should be free to consult you when they find anything on the internet as challenging or unpleasant.

Conclusion

Maintaining a child’s online safety requires applying rules or guidelines. You must remember the importance of the internet, and the threats or dangers it poses. Focusing on your child’s safety needs to be your most crucial goal.