Keep Kids Safe Online

New technology is a lot of fun, but as parents we must be wise when introducing our kids to new devices, apps, and ways to access information.

So, this week, we discuss a necessary topic - internet safety. Please read for good ideas on keeping kids safe on mobile devices and computer.

- pho to by CHILD SAFETY

As you know, the world in general and the internet in particular may look as inviting as a placid lake on a hot summer day, but can be as dangerous as an ocean teeming with sharks.

Here are some safeguards to keep in mind when handing over a smartphone, iPad or computer for a child's use:

1. Seriously consider using content filtering software. A content filter will provide you with parental controls to keep inappropriate material from reaching your child's eyes. Filtering software can be set up on each computer and device that you own or even on the router itself. We recommend Safe Eyes, which would need to be installed on each computer or mobile device that you own. Alternatively, you may want to consider Covenant Eyes, which sends you tracking reports, or OpenDNS which can be installed on your router.
2. If you do not have a content filter on your router, then you will want to strongly consider removing internet browsing capability on your mobile devices that your child will be using (ie. Safari) and video apps such as YouTube. A good solution is to download the Safe Eyes mobile app and use it as your internet browser. This will keep your kids from stumbling into adult content sites.
3. Carefully examine new apps that you download onto your mobile device. Purely innocent apps might allow unlimited internet browsing capability (such as Moodboard, for example, which is a great app, but one that we have decided not to use) and your kids can find themselves in trouble fast.
4. Keep all computers and mobile devices in family rooms or public places, where children are not left alone. Yes, we want to trust our kids completely, but it is important to understand that it doesn't take much to find yourself in deep, shark-infested waters. Help them be successful by staying close by and keeping them under your close supervision.
5. Always keep the lines of communication open with your kids so that they know what you expect from them when it comes to downloading apps or surfing the internet and make sure they know when to ask you for help. Talk about the dangers of the internet and how to stay safe online.

And finally, have fun exploring all of the new educational apps that are popping up all over the place. Be discerning, and maybe a little paranoid, but not so fearful that you cannot enjoy the new learning opportunities that are presenting themselves every day.

>>> Learn more: Keeping Kids Safe - Don't Let Them Smoke

Keeping kids safe? The easy way?

There was a time in history when protecting your children was truly as simple as ensuring they were home at sundown, brushed their teeth, and had a full belly after dinner.

The world has certainly changed over the last few decades, and even just the last few years.

Unfortunately, it seems that we now live in a world where dangers lurk around every corner; especially for the innocent and helpless children that we love so dearly…

Don’t worry – there’s an easy way to prevent the danger, or at least cut down on it’s potential.

>>> Learn more: Child Safety Lockdown