Keeping Kids Safe Online: What Every Parent Needs to Know

10 Tips for Kids Online Safety

How do we keep our kids safe when big corporations and hospitals can’t even seem to protect our data?The digital world is constantly evolving, and so are the risks that our kids face online. As parents, it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest threats and take proactive steps to keep our children safe.

Here are some key areas to focus on, along with practical tips to help you protect your kids in today’s online environment.

1. Social Media and Privacy Settings

• What to Know: Social media platforms are where kids often share personal details without understanding the risks. Strangers can easily access this information if privacy settings aren’t properly configured.
• What to Do: Regularly review and update privacy settings on all social media accounts. Ensure profiles are set to private, and discuss the importance of not sharing personal information like location, school, or phone number. For step-by-step instructions on how to set up privacy settings on devices, check out this guide.

According to a 2021 report from Statistics Canada, 17% of Canadian students aged 15 to 17 reported being cyberbullied in the past year. The rate was higher among females (20%) compared to males (14%).

2. Cyberbullying

• What to Know: Cyberbullying is a growing issue where children are harassed or humiliated online. It can happen through social media, messaging apps, or online games.
• What to Do: Teach your kids to recognize and report cyberbullying. Encourage open communication so they feel comfortable sharing any negative experiences. Monitor their online interactions and be aware of signs of emotional distress.

Cyberbullying Resources – There are several Canadian resources for cyberbullying. One of the most prominent is Cyberbullying.ca, which provides information and support specifically tailored to Canadian youth and parents. It’s part of the Canadian Centre for Child Protection, which also runs NeedHelpNow.ca. This site offers resources for teens dealing with the issue of online exploitation and cyberbullying. Another valuable resource is MediaSmarts, a Canadian not-for-profit organization that provides extensive resources on digital and media literacy, including a section dedicated to cyberbullying.Additionally, Kids Help Phone is a well-known Canadian organization that offers 24/7 counseling and support for kids and teens, including help with issues related to cyberbullying.

3. Inappropriate Content

• What to Know: The internet is full of inappropriate content that is not suitable for children, including violence, adult content, and harmful ideologies.
• What to Do: Use parental controls on devices and apps to block inappropriate content. Discuss with your child what to do if they accidentally encounter something disturbing online, and assure them they won’t be in trouble for telling you.

4. Online Predators

• What to Know: Online predators often disguise themselves as peers or trustworthy adults to manipulate children and gain their trust.
• What to Do: Teach your kids to be cautious about online friends they’ve never met in person. Encourage them to never share personal details, photos, or meet up with someone they only know online. Regularly check their friend lists and discuss their online relationships.

5. Phishing Scams and Malware

• What to Know: Kids are increasingly targeted by phishing scams, where they’re tricked into giving away personal information, or downloading malware through links and attachments.
• What to Do: Educate your children about the dangers of clicking on unknown links or downloading files from untrustworthy sources. Use security software that provides real-time protection against phishing and malware.

6. Overuse and Screen Time

• What to Know: Excessive screen time can lead to issues like sleep problems, anxiety, and poor academic performance.
• What to Do: Set clear limits on screen time, especially during school days. Encourage offline activities and ensure that screen time is balanced with homework, physical activity, and family time.

7. Influencer Culture and Peer Pressure

• What to Know: Kids often follow influencers who may promote unrealistic lifestyles or unsafe challenges that could lead to peer pressure.
• What to Do: Talk to your kids about the difference between online personas and real life. Encourage critical thinking about what they see online and help them understand that not everything posted by influencers is true or safe to imitate.

8. Gaming and In-Game Purchases

• What to Know: Online gaming can expose kids to toxic behavior, inappropriate content, and unexpected expenses through in-game purchases.
• What to Do: Monitor the games your children play and set up parental controls to limit in-game spending. Discuss the risks of interacting with strangers in gaming environments and make sure they know not to share personal information.

9. Location Tracking and Apps

• What to Know: Many apps and devices track your child’s location, which can be dangerous if shared with the wrong people.
• What to Do: Disable location services for apps that don’t need it, and teach your kids to be cautious about sharing their location, even with friends. Review the apps they use regularly to ensure they’re safe and appropriate. For more detailed instructions on setting up privacy settings on iPhone and Android devices, refer to this guide.

10. Fostering Open Communication

• What to Know: The best defense is open communication. Kids are more likely to make safe choices online if they feel they can talk to you about their experiences.
• What to Do: Create a safe space for your kids to discuss their online activities without fear of judgment or punishment. Regularly check in with them about what they’re doing online, who they’re talking to, and any concerns they might have.

By staying informed and involved in your child’s online life, you can help protect them from the many risks they face in today’s digital world. Remember, the goal is to guide them in making smart, safe choices while enjoying the benefits of the internet.