Ways to Protect Kids Online

I know that if you have kids and grandkids, you want to make sure they are safe everywhere. Unfortunately, today we have more areas of concern than in the olden days, i.e., before technology. There are many ways out there to help you keep track of them, but a couple of good ideas I have discovered when researching. I previously wrote an article titled, “Family Options” (ghtech.site/fam-ops). It has another idea concerning this subject. You may want to take a look.   

First, and maybe most difficult to do, is to limit their online time. The recommended amount of screen time for kids varies depending on their age, but the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends the following guidelines. Children ages 2-5 years should be online up to one hour per day of high-quality programming. Children ages six years and older, it is suggested that no more than two hours per day of screen time that is educational and engages them.

It is important to keep in mind that screen time is just one part of a child’s day. Other activities, such as physical exercise, reading, and playing with friends, are very important.

I have also read in several places that children can be more sensitive to being online before bed. It can get their minds more stimulated and not calm, making it hard for them to settle down at bedtime. Furthermore, electronic screens give off a blue light that can upset all of our natural sleep cycles. For children, it can be worse, so establishing a screen-free bedtime routine can make a difference. How long we should be offline before bedtime? It is said anywhere from an hour to 90 minutes is good, especially for the kids.

Now, for children that are old enough to have a smartphone, you have other issues. Back in the old days, our kids did not get a phone until they were driving. Times have changed as I know some first-graders who now have phones.

There are many of this type of application out there that can help you keep up with the kids. The one I recommend is, “Family Link” (ghtech.site/fam-link) from Google. It is free, and you can add to either Android or iPhones. It works well, from what I have heard from some younger parents. It allows you to set ranges of time that they may be online. You can set it up so certain sites cannot be accessed, or even categories of sites that are off limits. You may choose the apps you allow them to use and download. You can limit their use of YouTube to more kid friendly versions. You have the ability to access and change their phone’s password if needed.

Another free Google app that my family uses, starting with our kids and presently with our grandchildren, is Google Maps sharing feature. We created a family group of which we are all members. When my daughter started driving, almost 20 years ago, she asked me to keep an eye on her if she ever had a breakdown or other problems. She knew that if she needed me, I would see where she was on the map. Even though that was long ago, she still shares her location. Now the grandkids are following suit. Even the new driver likes knowing I am available when needed.

It is easy to set up and you may Google for “how to” instructions, if you need them. This feature is also available in the Family Link app features, but you can use it alone.  

How about discussing safety with your kids, setting some rules and expectations with what is safe and acceptable online. Let them know your concerns for them. Do not be a helicopter parent, but you can occasionally check in with your kids and ask them to show you what they are doing online. This helps to establish open communication and ensures they are not engaging in any activities that could be trouble.