Tips to Help Keep Kids Safe Online

Whether it be home, school, or online, our kids’ safety is of utmost importance. It is no surprise how significant technology is in all our lives. As adults struggle to navigate the online world, imagine the challenges faced by our youth. They not only have to learn how to cope and grow in the “real” world, but are also faced with needing to learn how to handle life online (in one way or another). As a new school year quickly approaches, we want to offer some tools to help.

Let’s discuss a few tips to help keep kids safe online:

Educate yourself 

Depending on the age of your child or children, the inherent dangers presented online may differ, as such it is important for a parent to learn about the risks involved. From messaging apps to online games, be aware of what your child is participating in online, and educate yourself on what that entails, and the risks involved. Since children are less likely to understand these, it is important to do your due diligence and educate yourself to what they are doing online. 

Be involved 

Don’t bury your head in the sand and assume your child will follow the rules and understand the risks of being online. Check in regularly with your child and ask plenty of questions. The more you engage and listen to what they are doing, the more likely they will engage you in conversation. It’s also a good idea to check in every now and then and go through what they are doing online together. While it is important to respect their privacy, especially as they get older, keeping your child safe is the main goal. 

Watch for changes 

Has your child become moodier? Are they sleeping less, or more? Do they seem more anxious, or depressed? In an article by Child Mind Institute, they note: “Research shows that 60 percent of adolescents are looking at their phones in the last hour before sleep, and that they get on average an hour less sleep than their peers who don’t use their phones before bed.” If you notice changes in your child’s behaviour, ask questions and reconsider how they are spending their time online. If needed, seek the help of professionals. 

There are many resources available to parents and kids to help navigate the many topics related to online safety. We encourage you to check these out or reach out to us if you have specific questions or need help discussing these topics with your children.  

Absolutely! Here’s a concise conclusion for your blog post on keeping kids safe online:

Remember, staying informed and proactive is key to creating a safe online environment for children of all ages. By setting clear guidelines, fostering open communication, and leveraging the right tools and resources, we can help our kids navigate the online world with confidence and security.