In today’s world, internet access has become essential, but this constant connection raises concerns for children’s online safety. Despite the numerous advantages that the internet offers, it also comes with its share of risks such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and malicious contacts. Social media platforms, online games, and discussion forums are all places where these dangers can arise. Therefore, it is crucial to educate and implement preventive measures to ensure safe navigation. Here are some essential tips to achieve this:
The 7 fundamental tips for safe internet use
Tip #1 Establish clear rules
Set clear rules for internet use, including screen time limits, restrictions on accessing certain sites, and strict guidelines on sharing personal information. Explain to your child the reasons behind these rules, emphasizing the protection of their safety and privacy.
Tip #2 Raise your child’s awareness of existing risks
Teach your child to think critically to develop discernment in dangerous situations. Encourage them to ask questions, evaluate information, and understand the consequences of their actions so they can recognize dangers and make informed decisions for their own protection.
Tip #3 Supervise computer use in a central location in the house
Encourage computer use in a central location for easy supervision of online activities. Involve yourself in their use by showing interest in the websites, games, and applications they frequent, occasionally navigating with them.
Tip #4 Teach your child to protect their privacy
Emphasize the importance of never disclosing personal information without authorization. Advise them to use a pseudonym to preserve their online identity.
Tip #5 Encourage open and transparent communication
Create an environment where your child feels comfortable sharing their online experiences, research, and the sites and applications they use. Assure them they can come to you in case of bullying or uncomfortable situations. By establishing an environment where your child feels at ease discussing their online activities, you’ll be better informed about potential risks.
Tip #6 Promote responsible behaviour
Create awareness of the impact of their words, comments, and actions online. Discuss with your child the importance of developing a respectful and healthy attitude towards others. They should understand the consequences of their actions.
Tip #7 Use parental control software
Parental control software is an additional layer of security, but it should not replace active parental supervision. These tools help your child use the internet independently and age appropriately. It’s important to explain that you’re not spying on them but rather protecting them from the risks and dangers of the internet.
Age-appropriate advice for your children
In today’s world, children are registering on social media and gaming platforms at increasingly younger ages, sometimes bypassing the age restrictions legally required for these applications, which typically demand users to be at least 13 years old. Since risks can vary based on children’s ages, it is crucial to consider the following safety guidelines:
Our advice based on your child’s age:
From 5 to 7 years:
- Never leave your child of this age alone online
Accompanying your child during their initial experiences on the internet will ensure a safer and more enjoyable online experience. Additionally, ensure access to instant messaging, emails, and chat platforms is limited or prohibited.
- Research games your child wants to use before allowing them to play
By checking the content, you can ensure that the games match your child’s maturity and sensitivity, preventing exposure to inappropriate or violent content. Age ratings provided with games, apps, and social media are good indicators to determine if they are suitable for your child’s age.
- Personalize their internet environment by creating a list of “favourites.”
Customizing this list allows you to highlight educational sites, teaching resources, and stimulating content. Moreover, they can more easily access approved sites without needing to search the internet, minimizing the risk of encountering inappropriate content.
From 8 to 11 years:
- Obtain a family email account
This method allows you to supervise and guide your child’s online experience by monitoring the sites visited or applications used.
- Explain the importance of secure passwords
Help your child understand that passwords are a crucial part of protecting their personal data, preventing unauthorized access to their online accounts. Teach them to create strong passwords by combining letters, numbers, and special characters. You can also explain that managing their passwords is a personal responsibility, and they should not share them with anyone, even a friend.
- Teach them to spot fraudulent or unreliable sites
This is a crucial aspect of online security. Your child will become less vulnerable to online scams and better equipped to recognize the tactics used by cybercriminals to trap them.
- Explain the dangers of fake profiles
Educate your child about signs that may indicate that someone online is not who they claim to be. Don’t hesitate to use concrete examples to illustrate your points. Teach your child how to report any suspicious or inappropriate online behaviour. Most platforms have reporting options that allow users to prevent abuse. Lastly, encourage open communication and specify that if they have doubts about a person or situation, they should immediately talk to you.
From 12 to 17 years:
- Remind your child that the Internet is a public place
They should be vigilant when posting information or exchanging photos and videos on social media like TikTok or Instagram. Published content can be transmitted to an immense number of people or remain online forever. It is important to think carefully before posting anything.
- Encourage them to make their accounts private
Indeed, a public account gives access to everyone, to their photos/videos, and personal information. This access to their personal data can also make them more vulnerable to cyberbullying. Explain to your child that they should never accept an invitation from someone they don’t know, even if that person claims to be a friend of a friend.
- Ensure your child informs you before meeting an “online friend”
Establish clear rules with them, specifying that you understand they may have online friends but for their safety, it is essential that you are informed. Physical meetings should be discussed beforehand, including information about the person, the meeting place, and the presence of a trusted adult.
- Encourage critical thinking about online content.
Teach them to check the source of information and verify facts by consulting multiple platforms. Provide them with online educational resources that address topics informatively and respectfully. The most important point is to create an environment where they feel comfortable asking questions and sharing their doubts.
Despite all these guidelines, remember that communication is essential if you want to allow your child to navigate the internet safely. Encourage open dialogue so they feel comfortable seeking help if they encounter difficulties because maintaining a trusting relationship with your child is the best way to provide a healthy environment. Also, don’t hesitate to enhance your understanding and stay informed about developments on the internet. The more you know about the dangers in the virtual world, the better you can ensure your child’s safety.