The internet serves as a vast well of knowledge for students of all ages. From an early age, children become active users, navigating its virtual terrain with increasing familiarity. However, like any new environment, parental guidance and support are essential to ensure their safety and well-being online.
What is Internet Security
The Internet is a universal source of information for any student. The child becomes an active Internet user from an early age. As in any new environment, the adaptation and support of parents is important to him on the Internet.
The list of dangers that a child may face on the Web is long: violence, pornography, disclosure of personal data, fraudulent operations, cyberbullying. In addition to external threats, there is a possibility that the child will not be able to control the time on the Internet, will begin to put off important things, or become Internet addicted.
The parents’ job is to introduce him to the Internet, to tell him about the rules of behavior on the Web and about the threats that he may face.
The Multitude of Online Threats
The dangers lurking on the web are manifold: from exposure to violence and pornography to the risk of personal data breaches and cyberbullying. Moreover, there’s the possibility of falling prey to fraudulent schemes or even succumbing to internet addiction. In addition to external threats, there’s a concern that excessive screen time might lead to neglecting important tasks or developing addictive behaviors.
How to ethically supervise your child online
Ethically supervising your child’s online activities requires striking a delicate balance. Rather than hovering over every digital move your child makes, fostering trust and open communication is paramount. Imposing strict prohibitions or resorting to covert surveillance tactics can backfire, undermining the trust between you and your child. Instead, engage in meaningful conversations, express your concerns, and listen attentively to your child’s perspective. By understanding the underlying reasons for their online behavior, you can address issues collaboratively and effectively.
Do not follow every step of the child. Remember that the guarantee of his safety on the Internet is a trusting relationship with his parents.
It is also important not to set ultimatum prohibitions. Even if you see that the child spends a lot of time on his phone, you should not take away the gadget or restrict access to the Web. Today, the Internet is a necessary resource, and virtual communication in social networks is an important part of socialization. Talk to your child, share what is bothering you, and listen to his opinion. If an unreasonable ban can cause a protest, then understanding the reason and an agreement with the parent will help resolve the situation.
It is also not necessary to control the child secretly. Using tracking applications, reading correspondence, checking personal pages on social networks without the knowledge of the child is a gross violation of personal boundaries. Such actions can undermine trust in your relationship and lead to conflicts. Try asking yourself questions: “Why am I worried about the child?”, “Why do I feel like I don’t know something?”
How to ensure Internet safety for a child
When you let your child go for a walk alone, you explain to him how to cross the road correctly, check if his phone is charged, and ask him to call to make sure everything is in order. The same thing happens in the Internet space: it is important to teach a child the basic rules of security on the Internet, and, if necessary, control it.
Here are some ways to do it:
- Children’s Gadget Mode: Utilize features like children’s mode on platforms such as YouTube to restrict access to age-inappropriate content.
- Screen Time Management: Implement screen time limits to regulate your child’s usage of applications and social media platforms.
- Location Tracking: Employ location-tracking applications to monitor your child’s whereabouts in real-time, especially when they’re out and about independently.
- Site Blocking: Utilize tools to block access to potentially harmful websites and resources, safeguarding your child from encountering inappropriate content.
- Device Segregation: Encourage separate device usage for educational and recreational purposes to maintain focus and establish clear boundaries between study and leisure time.
Transparent Communication: The Key to Building Trust
In my opinion, covert control greatly undermines trust. Parents receive certain information and begin to communicate with the child in a slightly different way. The child senses that something is wrong. Because of this, there is tension in the relationship. If he finds out that adults are secretly controlling him, it will be a big blow. Violating the personal boundaries of the child, the parent may lose trust, the opportunity for dialogue, and this is the only way to teach him to behave competently and not be in danger.
It seems to me that the principle of openness is universal: any form of control is acceptable if the child knows and agrees about it. For example, if a parent wants to install an application that tracks location, it is worth talking to the child about this, saying that you are worried about him. Here, respectively, there are two options: he says “yes, okay” or “no, I don’t feel like it.” It is important for the parent to enter into a dialogue and try to reach a compromise.
Totalitarian control will have no effect: a child can find any gadget, ask a friend for a phone and watch anything.
You should also not criticize the activity of the child in social networks. Even if he puts out some stupid things from the point of view of his parents, but they are not dangerous for his life and health, then he can do it. For a child, both the Internet and the world as a whole are a big sandbox in which he tries everything.
In Conclusion
Navigating the complexities of internet security for children requires a collaborative effort between parents and children. By fostering trust, maintaining open communication, and implementing practical safety measures, you can ensure that your child’s online experience is enriching, safe, and empowering. Remember, the key lies in fostering a digital environment where curiosity thrives, boundaries are respected, and safety is paramount.
