Exploring Internet Safety with Your Child

The internet is a great source of information and entertainment and a way for us to communicate with friends and family all around the world. However, when not used with caution, it can be quite a dangerous tool. Many people have fallen victim to scammers, hackers, and other criminals online, so parents should be sure to instil a sense of awareness in their children from the minute they are given access to the internet. Here are some tips from a private school in Gerrards Cross.

Talk About Internet Safety Often

The topic of internet safety shouldn’t be something you talk about once and then never mention again. It’s something you should chat about regularly so that your child understands the message that you’re trying to deliver. Check-in every so often on what apps and websites your child likes to visit and talk to them about what the potential threats are and what to keep an eye on. Speak to them about different concerns you have, from body image to cyberbullying, or even worse.

Establish Rules

During your conversations about internet safety, make sure your child is clear on the rules. For instance, they should never share personal information about themselves, meet up with someone they’ve met online, or share private photos of themselves. If they notice anyone being bullied online, they should inform a parent or teacher. Depending on your child’s age and your personal preferences, you might want to establish a rule that your child can only use their digital devices in a communal part of the home, or with their bedroom door open so that you can keep an eye on them. 

Install Parental Controls

There are ways you can block pop-ups and inappropriate websites so that your child isn’t faced with anything unsuitable. Speak to your child’s phone network provider or your internet provider to see what they can do to protect your child and help you keep an eye on what they’re looking at. 

This is a collaborative post.