Today’s youngsters are constantly exposed to technology, from tablets and TV to cellphones and social media. Too much technology use can have negative health and physical repercussions. Being exposed to more mature content, their mindsets can be framed in a wrong way and they can develop violent tendencies. It will also impact their social skills and behaviour. This doesn’t mean parents should completely ban technology, but it is crucial for parents to be aware of the potential negative impacts technology may have on their kids and to come up with plans to reduce their exposure to screens.
1. Manage screen time
There should be certain guidelines and limitations regarding the use of internet. Ensure that gadgets are password- and passcode-protected. Parents should impose screen time restrictions on computer use or ask them to hand over their phones at bedtime. To enforce regulations, you can utilise a variety of technologies. You can disable particular devices’ access to the internet on many routers at specific times. Having boundaries promotes children’s overall wellbeing and aids in keeping them safe.
2. Take part and keep an eye
Children shouldn’t be left unattended browsing the internet. Try to keep track of their whereabouts and their contacts. There are numerous monitoring technologies at your disposal that can help you protect your children. Additionally, teenagers lack understanding of the risks associated with posting personal information online. Inform them about their right to privacy and the proper understanding of public disclosure.
3. Age limit for social apps
The recommended age at which a child can begin using social media is 13. Before the age of 13, minors shouldn’t open a social media account. Following these restrictions is the first step in ensuring internet safety for children and young adults. Parents should explain to their children that talking to strangers on social media is not appropriate. Your child won’t make any unwanted contacts if you teach them how to use the Internet safely. Remind them to tell you about it if they do get in touch with someone online without responding to the message.
4. Communicate and build trust
Your child will open up to you more if you are not a strict parent who constantly shakes their finger at them and do not punish them. You should always respect their needs and wants. Constantly communicate with your child and build trust. You will be aware of the potential risks if your child feels secure enough to talk to you when they sense something fishy. Children should feel comfortable sharing their issues and insecurities with you in order to ensure their online safety.
5. Use security filters and softwares
You can employ DNS filtering to make the internet safer. Customise your browser’s security options. Filter out offensive, violent, and adult content. By taking these steps, the harmful impacts of technology on children will be lessened. After doing this, keep monitoring your child’s activity. Keep in touch with your youngster constantly and try to find out what they are doing online. Asking them to teach you what they are doing online is the easiest method to discreetly keep an eye on them because kids love to pass along knowledge to grownups.
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