Online Safety Tips for Kids
Posted On: September 23, 2019 by Farmers & Merchants Bank & Trust in: Cyber Security
Technology is everywhere and used on a daily basis nowadays, so how do we protect our children when online? Now more than ever is the most important time to sit down with your kiddos and spend time really explaining the importance of being safe while online. That’s why Farmers & Merchants Bank & Trust wanted to offer some main points to touch on with your kids when discussing online safety.
Family Rules:
These 8 simple rules are a great starting point for family discussions about safe internet use. Consider printing them out and posting them next to your home computer so everyone remembers them.
- I won’t tell my address, name, phone number or other special information to anyone online or post it online.
- I will tell mom or dad right away if something seems not right when I’m on the computer or my phone.
- I’ll never meet anyone I speak to online, unless my parents say it’s okay and come with me.
- I’ll talk to my parents about posting certain things online if I’m unsure, such as pictures.
- I won’t give anyone my passwords, even my best friends.
- I won’t download any games until checking with mom or dad.
- I will not say mean things to anyone online and will tell my parents if I do see something like that, or if it happens to me.
- I will have mom or dad help install privacy settings on any online platforms I’m using.
Tips for Mom and Dad:
In addition to the rules above, keep these tips in mind as additional ways to protect your family from online predators.
- Only allow your child to use their phone or computer in open areas, like a living room or kitchen. Don’t allow them to be alone and on technology if they are young.
- Limit what your child does or keep an eye on their actions with certain tools and settings. One tool to use is YouTube Parental Controls. Click here to learn more about this.
- Educate yourself on social media, so you know what your child is being exposed to.
- Continuously talk to your young children about being safe and have them understand and make the promises above.
- For your older children, give them more space and freedom with their technology. However, continue to have open conversations about what is new in the online world and if they experience any issues such as cyberbullying or come across something that makes them uncomfortable.
We hope these tips allow you to keep your children safe while online. Technology is an integral part of society now, but it’s always important to keep discussions open and honest about the online world, so there is a good flow of trust and communication within your family.
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