5 Discreet Tips To Monitor Your Child’s Online Activities
A recent study shows an uptick in daily internet users for teens from 92% in 2014-15 to 97% today. Are your kids always glued to their devices? Are they secretive about their phone and social media accounts? It’s definitely time to pay close attention to your kids! Maybe, they’re doing things they shouldn’t.
You have good reasons to freak out as a parent because the internet is about dangers such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content and online predators. The worst part is that youngsters hardly realize these perils. While you must ensure your child’s online safety, it is easier said than done.
Kids of any age hate privacy invasion, with parents peering into their devices. Don’t stress out because you can keep an eye on your teen without being too snoopy. Let’s share some actionable tips that will help you do just that!
Guide them about privacy settings
Nothing is better than safeguarding online privacy in the first place, as it nips the issue in the bud. In fact, you can spare yourself the effort of chasing your kids around by ensuring they use appropriate privacy settings online. These settings are meant to keep predators at bay.
Ideally, they should use them to secure their social media accounts and other online profiles. It enables them to control who can see their information and posts. Moreover, they can stay away from unwanted attention from strangers.
Use parental control where possible
You may not be able to control your kids after a certain age, but do make hay while the sun shines. Check out parental control software to keep a tight leash on your kid’s online activities. It’s great as you can set limits on internet usage, track what they’re up to online, and block websites that aren’t suitable for them.
You can explore loads of free and paid software options, so don’t worry about breaking the bank with the expense. Be in control as far as possible!
Create space for an open dialogue
Do you talk to your kids enough? Busy mommies and daddies often fall short on this front. But you must create a space for having an open dialogue with them. It helps eliminate the need for tracking and monitoring in the long run.
Discuss the potential dangers of the internet and explain why online safety is crucial. Also, make it clear that you’re not invading their privacy, but trying to protect them. Let them know that they can come to you if they ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
Keep an eye on social media
Social media isn’t all fun and entertainment. It can be a breeding ground for online predators, cyberbullying, and inappropriate content. Your kid may land into big trouble by befriending strangers on social media, so you must definitely follow them there.
Monitor their friend list, watch their posts and messages, and ensure proper privacy settings. You can even get a hacker for hire to dig deep into an adamant teen’s activity. Remember to be discreet because you don’t expect them to be happy about your detective work.
Check their browsing history
Peeping at your kid’s browsing history is a great way to keep tabs on their online activity. Check what websites they’ve hit up, what they’ve been searching for, and how long they’ve been on each site. But getting your hand on their devices can be a real challenge.
Watch out, some tech-savvy kids even wipe their browsing history clean. So the strategy isn’t always foolproof, except when you are ready to steal your child’s gadgets when they’re out or deep asleep!
Lead by example
Listen up, parents! The best way to educate your children about internet safety is to walk the talk. Lead by example and be a role model for them by practicing safe internet habits. Also, make sure your kid can watch you doing it.
For example, skip spilling too much personal info online, avoid cyberbullying or online harassment, and steer clear of using your phone or computer all the time. By changing your habits, you’ll be showing them how to be responsible online.
Wrapping Up
Monitoring your child’s online activities may seem like an invasive task, but there’s nothing wrong with it. The truth is that keeping an eye on your kid shows that you’re a good parent. So don’t feel guilty and track and monitor your children without second thoughts. You’ve got the right to know what they’re up to, and it’s your responsibility to protect them. Follow these discreet steps to stay ahead of both!
