May 27, 2020

Exploring Internet Safety with Your Child

Most children nowadays have access to a smart phone and other digital devices, all with internet connection. With that said, it’s crucial for parents to talk to their youngsters about the possible dangers of the internet, if they haven’t already. Of course, the internet isn’t all bad; it can help a child with their learning and allow them to communicate with friends and family around the world. However, it can also be a very dark place and children need to know how to behave appropriately when using their devices. Read on for some tips from an independent school in Somerset.

internet safety for children

The easiest option is to start with a family chat, perhaps at dinnertime, in which you all discuss what you think is and isn’t a safe way to use the internet. Your child might mention some of the apps and websites that their friends are using, that they too would like to use. Don’t shut them down right away; it’s better to go away and do your research to figure out if you think these apps are suitable and age appropriate. If there’s something you’d prefer they didn’t do, make sure you explain to your child why rather than giving them a hard “no”.

Once you’ve had your family discussion and carried out some research, put together a list of clear-cut rules that cannot be challenged later down the line. Some examples are as follows:

Never meet up with someone in person you have only met online
Never send or post inappropriate or provocative photos
Never tell anyone personal information, such as home address or passwords

How much you’re willing to share to your child about the dangers of the internet will depend on their age and maturity. You don’t necessarily have to share all the details about paedophiles and hackers, but they should be able to comprehend that sometimes people pretend to be someone they’re not when hiding behind a screen. They should also be aware that once they post something online, it can never truly be deleted, so they should think carefully before they post.

Thanks for reading xxx