Teaching your children to use technology wisely can help your children stay protected from those who would seek to harm them. It also helps them learn standards for safety and how they can avoid hurting others through things such as cyberbullying or online harassment. As a parent, you can be the model for how to use technology safely and appropriately. Pay attention to your own habits and modify them as needed.
An essential part of safety is making sure children have access to digital devices only when they are old enough to use them responsibly. When you feel your child can appropriately handle technology, set standards together that will help keep the family safe.It is important for children to know that not everyone who is online is a “friend.” Regularly teach children how to use digital devices wisely.
Children should know that you are invested in helping them. Consider discussing the following when developing a safe technology plan with your children:
How to create appropriate posts for social networking sites.
How to handle cyberbullying or inappropriate texting.
What to do when they see inappropriate behavior or images.
What information or content is inappropriate to share online.
Where it is appropriate and safe to use digital devices.
Why parents have the responsibility to set safety standards and access to digital devices.
Keep your focus on how to prevent future problems. The child may already feel worried and ashamed if they have seen or participated in inappropriate content or behavior, and your calm approach will help him or her feel confident enough to approach you in the future.
Consider some of the following standards for the family, and set guidelines together. Have a discussion with your children about:
Limiting internet access.
Limiting online contacts to family and close family friends.
Establishing acceptable times and time limits for technology use.
Setting a regular time each day or week when the family “unplugs” from digital devices.
Establishing technology-free zones in certain areas of the home.
Setting up a family recharging station where children plug in digital devices each night at bedtime.
Blocking inappropriate or unsafe applications, many of which allow unfilterable content.
Following each other on social media platforms.