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Are you a webwise Parent?

In every stage of the development of your child, from Early Childhood to Adolescence, you teach, guide and support your kids. It should be no different when it comes to their online lives. If you are a parent, there are a few things to consider when you let your kids enter the online world.

  1. As a parent it is important that you get involved with your kids’ online activities.

    This means not just talking to your kids about what they do online but also listening. The best online safety strategy, regardless of age, is to communicate with your child and to engage with them about what they are doing online and who they are doing it with.

  2. Set rules and boundaries around internet in your home.

    Agree with your child on the guidelines which apply to internet use in your home. Discuss when and for how long your kid is allowed to use Internet. Teach them on how to behave towards others in their online activities. Agree on what type of sites and activities are suitable for them. Encourage them to use their time online for learning, creativity and education.

  3. Always set rules for usage of social networking, instant messaging, emailing, online gaming, and webcams. Monitor these sites to find out what your child does online, who your child might be connecting with online etc
  4. Make your kids aware about the risks associated with Internet.

    Advise them to be careful when disclosing personal information such as name, address, telephone, email etc. and Talk about the dangers associated with meeting online ‘friends’ in person. It is important that your child does not meet strangers they have met online without being accompanied by an adult you trust. In any case, make sure your child always seeks your approval first.

  5. Teach your child to realize that the information they find online are not always accurate. Your kid should be aware that not all information found online is correct, accurate or relevant. Teach your child how to check the validity of information by comparing it to alternative sources on the same topic. Make them aware on the trusted sites they can use to compare information.
  6. Monitor your kids’ mobile phones, gaming devices, computers and laptops. Do not let your kid to keep the devices hidden from you. Ask them to show you their devices and engage with them when they use those devices. Always check the sites they visited, the games they played and what they communicate with others.

As a parent, help your child to have a positive experience when they are online. Remember, prevention is always better than cure.