Keeping an eye on what your children access online is a recent concern that parents have to face. There are so many challenges that come with digital technology and its impact on children. Here’s how you can monitor your child’s use of the internet in the home.
Don’t Give In to Peer Pressure
Just because your children’s friends have certain devices or house rules about internet use doesn’t mean you have to copy them. What works for one parent may not work for another. Experts advise limiting your children’s access to digital devices to protect their developing minds. While it may be tempting to let your child watch videos on your tablet or use your phone to play games, you have control and the authority to say no. It may be difficult denying your kids what they want in the short term, but this will ultimately help them grow into more sociable and creative adults.
Set Rules and Stick to Them
It’s up to you to figure out which rules apply best to your family. No matter what you decide, make sure that the rules are clear, easy to follow, and upheld.
Limit Internet Use to a Shared Space
It is more of a challenge than ever before to keep your family’s internet use to one space. This is due to the size of devices getting smaller over time. There are still methods you can try that will make it easier to see how your children use the internet. Treating the family to a giant bean bag in the living room, for example, could encourage your kids to spend more time where you can monitor them. Discourage internet use when you are unable to be in the same room, even if this means restricting your child’s phone access after a certain time of day. If your kids want to be on their phones, make sure it’s where you can see them.
Install Protective Software
As a parent, it is your responsibility to take charge of any digital devices you give your children. Make sure there are adequate parental controls and limitations on these devices to prevent your kids from stumbling across something potentially harmful. You can also limit screen time by using software that only permits device use for a set period of time.
Talk to Your Kids
If your kids don’t feel that they can talk to you when they need help, they won’t be willing to share any worries that arise as a result of using the internet. Build trust between you and your children so that they feel comfortable coming to you with their problems and knowing you won’t judge them harshly. It is perfectly normal for kids to make mistakes since this is a part of growing up and learning about the world. Be understanding and listen to what they have to say.
It can be stressful trying to protect your kids from online threats, but hopefully, this advice will give you some useful tips.
