Look around you - how far are you from the nearest device that connects you the internet?
Probably not far enough. We have reached that point in time where we are almost completely
technologically dependent. So, it’s fair to say, the internet has changed our lives a fair bit
when compared to the times where there was no internet at all!
With kids growing up in the digital age, it can be a challenge for modern parents to monitor
the activity of their kids on the internet without becoming overly protective and spylike. However, a balance must be sought & achieved. While everything on the internet is not bad, overexposure to the internet is definitely undesirable. Thus, as a parent, your endeavour
must be to install the right education, mindset, and values in your children.
Wondering how and from where to start? Follow the below:
1) Be proactive:
As much as the dangers lurk the internet, there are tools readily available to keep them at bay too. If your child surfs the net for games or plays videos on YouTube, you can keep the child filter on, effectively keeping the bad things away. More than that, you can manually block specific sitesso that your child cannot accessthem. Use a firewall to avoid unauthorised access. Keep an eye on your child with whom he/she interacts with.
2) Set boundaries:
Make a schedule and make sure your child abides by it. The amount of time spent playing games on mobile, watching TV, or internet surfing needs to be set beforehand. Each of these activities needs to be monitored effectively, wherein there are ground rules established and over/above they can do as they please. Make sure your kids understand what’s right and wrong when it comes to cyber safety.
3) Educate them about privacy:
Teach your child not to give out personal information to strangers, especially if they’re offering something. Also, teach him/her not to agree to meet anyone without his/her guardian. Kids these days are always either in front of a TV, using a computer, or playing with a smartphone. This is why it’s essential to teach them how to be safe on these devices.
4) Cyberbullying:
Teach your child to speak up when they suspectsomeone is bullying him or her. Cyberbullying can happen anywhere and anytime. Teach your child to report to you when he or she faces some unkind or mean posts. Keep your communication with your child open at all times.
Today, technology is an integral part of our world. If used appropriately, electronic devices can have great benefits. However, research has shown that face-to-face interaction between kids and parents, teachers, and friends is essential in fostering healthy relationships and development. The internet can be a very powerful tool, but it’s important to not lose sight of personal relations and get lost in the world of social media.
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