Online safety. We all are working to protect ourselves, our accounts and identity. Parents must work even more diligently to protect youth who are using everything from Facebook to Instagram and Snapchat to WhatsApp. I finally learned my grandkids will answer more quickly if I use Snapchat than text, but I usually get some weird video playing before finding the right place to “chat.”
So, let’s remember a quick trick to help guard against what could be lurking behind those social media apps.
Think of the acronym KID:
Keep computer in sight. If the kids are using the computer in a central location, they are less likely to browse questionable content if someone might walk in at any time and see what they are doing.
Investigate what is being downloaded onto the computer and the phone. Apps are downloaded on the phone and the phone is, more often than not, out of sight so know what is on your child’s phone, what friends are on your child’s social media networks. If the friends are NOT friends, have them blocked or unfriended. Monitor social media by “friending” your child’s social media.
One out of every five kids receives sexual solicitations online. Strangers, predators and cyber-bullies all target children, and their work is simplified when screen names reveal age, gender or hometown. If posts aren’t marked as private, personal information can be displayed to an unrestricted audience of readers.
Digital literacy will help children navigate the internet responsibly, recognize harmful situations, and understand the importance of personal information protection.
The ten most recommended Parental Control Apps may help monitor your child’s internet usage. I have used none of these but have heard excellent comments about BARK.
The internet will continue to increase in its prevalence as a tool in communication as well as more of a danger for hackers and those with evil intent. A multi-faceted approach to child online safety that combines oversight, education and communication will enhance their ability to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.