5 Ways to Monitor and Safeguard Your Child’s Online Activities

As a parent, if you are looking to monitor and safeguard your child in their online activities and establishment of a digital footprint you know it is one hefty endeavor. The World Wide Web is exactly that, a web and it is essential to teach children to use it and learn ways to navigate it.

Today I’m going to share with you 5 Ways to Monitor and Safeguard Your Child’s Online Activities. It’s not an exhaustive list, but it is a helpful start. I hope you find these tips helpful.

Establish Clear Rules & Expectations

It is essential to have open and honest conversations with your child about the responsible use of technology.

Some examples include:

• Talking to them about the importance of only visiting trusted websites, such as educational platforms or reputable sources of information.
• Discussing the types of apps that are appropriate for their age.
• Helping them understand the potential risks associated with downloading apps from unknown sources.
• Encouraging them to find a healthy balance between screen time and other activities such as outdoor play, reading, or spending time with family and friends.

Use Parental Control Software

Parental control software provides a range of features that allow you to closely monitor and manage your child’s online activities.

Parental control software allows you to view their browsing history, see which apps they use, and even receive alerts if they engage in potentially dangerous or inappropriate activities.

Some examples include:

1. Net Nanny: This software offers a wide range of features, including content filtering, time management, and social media monitoring.
2. Qustodio: Qustodio allows you to set up individual profiles for each of your children, customize their internet access, and monitor their social media activity.
3. Norton Family: Norton Family offers comprehensive web protection, allowing you to block inappropriate content and track your child’s online searches.
4. Kaspersky Safe Kids: This software helps you manage your child’s device usage, set screen time limits, and restrict access to specific websites or apps.

Educate Yourself About Popular Apps & Social Media Platforms

Stay informed about the latest apps and social media platforms that your child might be using.

Popular apps include:

• TikTok
• Instagram
• Snapchat
• YouTube
• Facebook

Foster Open Communication

Encouraging your child to come to you when they encounter something online that makes them uncomfortable helps to establish trust and ensures that you can provide the necessary support and guidance.

Some examples to try:

• Let your child know that they can always talk to you if they receive a message from a stranger or witness any inappropriate content while browsing the internet.
• Provide examples of potential online encounters that may make your child uncomfortable, including cyberbullying, inappropriate images and videos, or receiving requests for personal information from unknown individuals.

Lead By Example

Children learn by observing their parents’ behavior, so it’s crucial for parents to be mindful of their own online habits and lead by example.

Start by:

• Setting designated screen-free times during the day, such as mealtime or before bedtime
• Establishing guidelines for the amount of time spent on devices and encouraging alternative activities like reading, playing outdoors, or engaging in creative hobbies.

Those are my 5 Ways to Monitor and Safeguard Your Child’s Online Activities. I hope you found these tips helpful.
If you are looking for ways to put the above tips into action but are in need of additional support.

Consider reaching out to Kid Matters Counseling for parenting support with one of our counselors today. Parenting is hard, don’t do it alone.