The internet is a wild place, full of things you would never believe. It offers practically everything from the comfort of one screen. It can lead to creativity and be the hub to many fun activities for kids. However, the internet can be a place of concern as it encourages curiosity and can lead to dark sides of the web. Teaching your child to be safe online starts as soon as they get access to the internet. As a child, they should never use the internet in a private space or alone and should always have an adult by them showing them which websites to use and keeping clear focus on what shows up on the screen. The older your child gets, the more you should monitor what sites they visit on the internet. This prep school in Cardiff ensures their students are taught how the internet works and how to be safe on it. Here is how you at home can help your child explore internet safety too.
In order for your child to understand how to be safe on the internet, they have to understand what the internet is. There’s no saying to them be careful of strange people and dodgy links as they’ll have no clue what’s being asked of them. First, explain to them how the big the internet actually is. Like an encyclopaedia on a screen but with the ability to contact other people as well. Start with showing them examples of the websites they should be on and things they can look out for that will ensure they’ve not ended up in the wrong place.
One thing people need to understand is that not everything on the internet is true. The internet to a child may seem fascinating and a hub for only professionals, in which they’d expect information provided to be legit. However, everyone has access to the internet and sites like Wikipedia which are used to attain information can be altered and edited without any permission from a first or second party. Ensure your child knows that they should learn which websites are providing accurate information and which ones are not.
Social media is the biggest route to the internet as most of the world uses and has access to it. As the platforms encourage sharing information about private life and where you may be or who you’re with, it’s essential your child knows where to draw the line. Stress that they shouldn’t share photos or locations with strangers as this can lead to further problems.
This is a very relevant topic for the current age we live in with many different views and opinions. If you have hints or tips you would like to share with ways to be safe online we would love to hear and share them in the comments section. Always be mindful to stay safe online whoever you are.
*collaborative post
About Debz Louise
Debz Louise is a UK-based lifestyle expert and the founder of several lifestyle blogs. Specialising in everything from interior design and home renovation to body-positive fashion and parenting, Debz brings a wealth of hands-on experience to every guide. Her mission at Stereotude is to simplify the modern world for her readers through expert curation and fiercely honest advice.