How can parents keep children safe online?
Having an honest conversation with kids about the Internet is the first step
Perhaps one of the most challenging tasks many parents sooner or later have to contend with is ensuring their kids can use the Internet in a safe way.
From abuse and cyberbullying to grooming and potential sexual exploitation, online risks can be as daunting as trying to keep kids offline in a heavily digitalised society where even schoolwork increasingly requires online tools. In our competitive society, there are now simply no alternatives to using the Internet and mastering computer skills, so arguably the best approach is to give kids some guidance to do it safely. But what’ s good advice?
The World Health Organization( WHO) recommends that parents have an honest conversation with their children about how the Internet works, making clear that what’ s posted online often leaves information about them which is almost impossible to take down. This means they should be mindful of what they do online.
“ Make sure they understand that discriminatory or inappropriate contact is never acceptable. No one should spread rumours or share hurtful or embarrassing stories or photos. What may seem like a harmless joke to one person can be deeply hurtful to others,” the WHO says.
Save the Children, for instance, suggests that parents not reveal any personal information online, including pictures of kids with a school logo or identifying information as well as any clue that could point to their location, such as holiday details, hotel information, or cafe signs.
Children who have online experiences that make them uncomfortable or scared should be taught to talk to their parents or trusted adults about their feelings, recommends the WHO.
Save the Children also recommends the following useful questions as a way to discuss with kids the impact of technology on them:“ How do different technologies, sites, apps or games make you feel? Do they affect your sleep, diet or exercise? Does using technology affect your family life or friendships, for good or bad?” Another piece of advice for adults is to share their own experiences with children, for instance, explaining the concerns they have around the use of the Internet.
Parents might also want to spend time with their kids online to show them how to use the Internet in a positive way, connecting with friends and family or exploring interesting content.
“ Help your child recognize and avoid misinformation and disinformation, age-inappropriate content and content that can potentially cause anxiety or other harm. Introduce them to trustworthy sources of information,” the WHO recommends.
This approach could help kids focus on ageappropriate content while making them more aware of potential risks, thus teaching them how to protect themselves as a first resort.
The WHO also advises parents to encourage children to do physical activity through online exercise videos or computer games that require physical movement. Sedentary lifestyles contribute to the development of many health problems as a result of kids staring at their screens for several hours a day in every country where smartphones are easily available.
“ Remember to balance online activities with an active lifestyle and offline recreation for a healthy balance in all aspects of life,” the WHO advises.
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