1. Educate and support
Children need boundaries, but too strict limits can cause resistance and do not teach kids to judge for themselves. Encourage open communication and be a good role model yourself. Explain why you set certain rules. Ensure that your children dare to talk about scary or disturbing things they might encounter online without having to worry about getting in trouble.
2. Define online rules together
Every family is different. Draft your family’s digital rules together, so that everyone will be motivated to follow them. Define the times, when devices can be used, which apps can be downloaded or purchased, what can be shared online, as well as what is the right balance of online and offline activities.
3. Monitor screen time
The internet has many positive sides, but excessive screen time may lead to physical inactivity, screen addiction and sleep problems. Recommended screen time varies by age. Agree on a suitable screen time for weekdays and weekends with your child. Set screen time limits and ensure a good night’s sleep by blocking usage of devices during nighttime with a parental app.
4. Filter inappropriate web content
With a young child, gaming or watching shows together is the best option. But for older children, and when you cannot be present, use automatic content filtering to make sure your kids are not accidentally exposed to inappropriate content. With a parental control app, you can block web pages and filter adult content and other unwanted content categories from search results on your children’s devices.
5. Control app installations
Do you want to allow your children to install apps without your permission? Relaxed rules for downloading games and in-app purchasing could cause unpleasant surprises on your credit card bills. Children could also end up downloading apps that are not appropriate for their age. Reviewing installations is easy with a parental control app.
6. Respect age limits
Social media services have age restrictions for a reason, so consider carefully if you decide not to follow them. Advise your youngsters to be careful about sharing information on their social media profiles. Chat option in apps that are popular among children could attract groomers and predators, who aim to form a relationship of trust to manipulate, sexually abuse or exploit their victims. Instruct your teens to watch out for warning signs and keep their personal data private.