Internet Safety for Kids

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We hear a lot of stories or complaints from parents regarding kids and their online activities. Some say kids these days are addicted to the internet and online games and that they prefer to stay indoors with their gadgets rather than play outside.

We also hear different approaches on how parents try to solve this problem. They either impose strict rules on gadget use or allow gadgets only at a certain time of the day, while others do not allow their kids at all.

While I agree that it is important that we monitor our children’s internet usage and use of online games, I think it is more important to teach our kids how to use the internet responsibly.

They can’t help it. These kids were born in this digital age where mostly everything is online. Schools even require them to use the internet these days. And it would be unfair if we rob them off of the opportunity to learn how to use and take advantage of this technology especially that innovation these days are leaning towards the expansion of virtual capacities.

Teaching them to be responsible internet users remains to be our best bet. Setting simple but achievable rules regarding internet usage (that are according to their age) is much better than telling them they can’t use the internet or play online games at all.

You can also set parenting controls on their gadgets so they don’t wander off into the internet abyss where there’s plenty of inappropriate content.

It is also important for kids to know that they should not divulge personal information nor interact with strangers online. The same way that they should not accept or send gifts, nor agree to meet with someone they met online.

If your elementary kid likes playing online games, introduce them to safe sites where they can play games. Much better if you introduce them to educational games so that they are learning while having fun.

There are math online games and physics and science games for kids that are educational and fun. This way, us parents know that they are safe while enjoying their internet use.

Lastly, as a parent, we should all be aware of the dangers of the internet so that we know how to protect our kids online. Cyber bullying, online predators, and inappropriate content are some of the real dangers online.

Discuss as a family how these can be avoided and set proper expectations that they are to follow the guidelines for their own safety.