While many different inventions have been monumental, the internet is one of a kind. It has taken communication to the next level. There are several benefits of the Internet for people of all ages. The internet is truly wonderful and knowledgeable. But there is also an ill side to it. Scams, predators, cyberbullying, hacking, inappropriate websites, content, etc. are a big part of it. One can’t deny that as much as the internet is useful and revolutionary, it could be used in many wrong ways as well.

Nowadays, it's very common for children to use the internet for doing homework, playing games learning new things, etc. But the internet could be particularly dangerous for kids, they are more vulnerable to all the aforementioned dangers. As a parent, it becomes your responsibility to make sure that they are safe, whether it be online or in real life.

So what can you as a parent do, to protect your child's safety while on the internet? Here are some tips to help keep your child safe online.

1. Check the devices

·Make sure your child’s device is running the latest software and antivirus programs. Check if their privacy settings are on all the time. Use tools such as Parental controls, including safe search. Remember to check the privacy settings to minimize data collection. Check if the Windows operating system used on your child's device has all the latest available software and security patches.

·Do not connect to unsecured WiFi networks outside your home. We often go to public places such as restaurants and malls without worrying about the online hackers that could wait for our connection to start. Keeping your own devices safe is the first step to ensuring your child’s internet privacy.

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2. Parent control apps

· Never use third-party parental control apps where you have no idea how they tackle the issue of data privacy. You can use parental control available within the individual apps (Facebook, Instagram, etc.) Use parental control apps from big tech companies to monitor the activity of your child.

· Don't use parental tracking devices like smartwatches from just any company. There are a few safety options like Samsung, Apple, etc., and don't leave smart speakers on while not needed. Any app which records keeps track of your child's location or records conversations should be chosen carefully.

3. Privacy guidelines

· Keep informed about their internet friends. Encourage them to talk about who they are communicating with on the internet and make sure they are not talking to online predators.

· Teach them to not share their personal information online for example contact, location, name, personal pictures, etc. And for that, you will have to be aware of new stuff getting introduced online from time to time.

4. Cyber security

· Educate your kids about cyber security and online threats. Explain in simple words and make them understand that they have to talk to you if something like this comes up. Be aware of what your kids post online and if they are getting bullied. 

· Make sure that your home devices have a very strong password. When you bring any new smart device, remember to change its default password and check the security and privacy settings of the device.

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5. Lead by example

· Set a good example for your kids. For setting the best kind of behavior you will need to monitor yourself first. Show them how positive online behavior you would like your children to use. Sometimes even involve them in whatever you are reading on the internet.

· Let them learn and explore information online but as per their age. Save their favorite sites online and ensure the content they watch or read is age-appropriate.

6. Focus on your kid's online behavior

· Keeping an eye on your child's activities on the internet doesn’t make you an overbearing parent. It makes you a responsible one. But, Instead of posing excessive control over what children should not watch or read on the Internet. Parents should focus on the useful side of the internet. Spend time online together to show your children all the educational or harmless fun stuff they can explore online.

At last, Do not just give instructions to them, but explain everything properly. Not only for internet safety proper and precise communication with them will immensely help you in the long run. After all, you can’t always make sure your child will not encounter any trouble online or in real life. Establishing trust early in life with your children will make it easier for them to ask for help whenever they need it.

We at Little Scholars School, kashipur focus on creating internet awareness.