From a young age, our kids are already quite familiar with using apps to play online games, to watch videos or to talk with family and friends. It’s important to frame your discussions on online safety around the devices and apps that they use in order to build understanding and develop strong practices and habits. As they grow older, you can help them expand their understanding and use of online devices.
The Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst has compiled the following tips for parents and kids to stay safe online:
- Encourage conversations with your child, assuring them they can come to a trusted adult if they have any questions, encounter anything strange or to show something they’ve found online.
- Set up parental controls on all devices and websites – these can include restricted access time and parental notifications and alerts when access to blocked websites are attempted.
- Update the browser settings to block pop-ups and ad banners where possible. And deactivate Auto-Fill options or options to remember or save information.
- Use safe search mode on your internet browser and encourage the use of youth-friendly search engines.
- Bookmark common websites that your kids may use so it’s easy for them to access without having to navigate to too many areas or websites.
Find more cybersecurity tips and guidelines for kids in kindergarten to grade 3 here.