In today’s world the use of social media is very common in young children. Sharing information and images on social media at any time is very easy. It’s quite common that the children are making unknown friends on social media whom they have never met, in the name of networking.
Through social media children are also sharing their personal information. They have to be careful in terms of what they are posting online. That’s the reason the parent has to be alert in terms of updating themselves on social media so that they can keep their children safe online.
How to keep the children safe?
1) Learn about the app
What your children are using. There are certain apps having age limit for the same. If you don’t know how to use the app update yourself for the same.
2) Get an online protection.
Programs that provide parental controls can block websites, enforce time limits, monitor the websites your child visits, and their online conversations. Few examples (Names can change with upgradation).
a) Norton
This allows you to set phone time limits and filter web content coming in.
b) TeenSafe
This allows you to track your child’s calls, texts, GPS and social media activity.
c) MobSafetyRangerBrowser
This enables you to view your child’s website browsing and set time limits.
3) Monitor the child’s activity online and ask questions.
Follow your child’s online accounts, and tell them that you are monitoring their online activity to help keep them safe. Some children or teens may create a fake second account for their parents to follow.
4) Discuss online unknown friends
Explain there will be people online who will show genuine interest and the child might feel comfortable to speak to unknown people online but explain that it’s easy for someone on the Internet to be fake.
Make it clear that if your child wants to meet an online friend in person, it must be in a public place and with a trusted adult.
The best option is if you don't know them, ‘don't friend them.’ This is a simple and safe rule of thumb.
5) Discuss about the digital reputation
Children have to be careful about the images they upload. Discuss what’s okay and safe to post online, and what isn’t. As a general rule, your child shouldn’t post anything they wouldn’t want a parent or teacher or future boss to see or read. Whatever we post we are creating a digital reputation for ourselves. Snapchat is not temporary, someone can take a screenshot as well.
6) Protecting the personal information
Remind the children that what they post can be used against them. For example, letting the world know that you're off on vacation or posting your home address gives would-be robbers a chance to strike. Teens also should avoid posting specific locations of parties or events, as well as phone numbers.
7) Use privacy settings.
Privacy settings are important. Go through them together to make sure your kids understand each one. Also, explain that passwords are there to protect them against things like identity theft. They should never share them with anyone, even a boyfriend, girlfriend, or best friend.
8) Discuss about cyber bullying and control on his behavior
Mean behavior is not OK. Make it clear that you expect your kids to treat others with respect, and to never post hurtful or embarrassing messages. Ask them to always tell you about any harassing or bullying messages that others post.
9) Discuss about Sexting
Sexting is sending sexually explicit messages, photos or videos between smartphones or social media apps.
Ask your teen what she knows about sexting. Talk about the dangers of sexting. Remind him that words and photos posted online can easily be shared with others.Also most dating sites (like Tinder, Grindr, Bumble) are for people over 18 years old, many teens know about them. Online dating services allow users to create a profile and upload personal information and photos. Users can be encouraged by others to share inappropriate photos.
10) Set screen time
Teach your child the value of “unplugging” from devices for technology-free time. Social media can be exciting, but it should be considered entertainment. Remind your child that no message is so important that it can’t wait until the morning.
11) Be a role model
Model good behaviour on your own social media accounts.
#Progressive Youth program # Rinkal Karia # Directional Coach and Guide for Youth# Love to help people
