December’s Tip as we go into the winter break –
Monitoring Children’s Online Activity
To monitor a child's online activity, parents can: use parental control apps on devices, regularly check web history, set screen time limits, monitor social media activity, use kid-friendly platforms, discuss online safety with their child, and consider sharing passwords for certain accounts while maintaining open communication.
Key strategies:
· Parental control apps:
Utilize dedicated parental control apps on smartphones, tablets, and computers to filter inappropriate content, track browsing history, set screen time limits, and receive alerts about suspicious activity.
· Built-in controls:
Leverage the parental controls built into devices and platforms like gaming consoles, YouTube, and social media apps to restrict access to unsuitable content and manage privacy settings.
· Regularly check web history:
Periodically review the child's browsing history on all devices to understand which websites they are visiting.
· Monitor social media:
If your child uses social media, review their profiles, friend lists, and posts regularly, ensuring privacy settings are maximized. It is recommended that children under the age of 13 do not have access to social media platforms.
· Kid-friendly platforms:
Encourage the use of age-appropriate platforms designed specifically for children, like Messenger Kids, instead of general social media networks.
· Open communication:
Have open conversations about online safety with your child, emphasizing the importance of not sharing personal information with strangers and reporting any concerning content.
· Password sharing (with caution):
Depending on your child's age, consider discussing a policy where you have access to their passwords for certain accounts, but always prioritize their privacy and respect their boundaries.
· Screen time limits:
Set appropriate screen time limits on devices to prevent excessive online usage. You can set up devices to turn off after a set time.
· Location tracking (if necessary):
For younger children, consider using location tracking features on their devices to monitor their whereabouts.
Important considerations:
· Age-appropriate monitoring: Adjust your monitoring level based on your child's age and maturity.
· Balance privacy and safety: While monitoring is necessary, respect your child's privacy and avoid overly intrusive practices.
· Educate yourself: Stay informed about emerging online threats and safety concerns to effectively guide your child.
