The topic of kids and the Internet is a tough one. We hear so many conflicting messages about the advantages and dangers of the Web. Plus, technology is advancing at such a rapid pace that keeping up with the latest trends and apps can be a full-time job. Whether you’re just beginning to learn about the online safety measures you can take to protect your kids online or need a refresher course, here are the top 3 questions we hear parents asking about their kids’ Internet use.
### How Much Is Too Much?
Does your child need to log in on a regular basis to hone his digital literacy skills, or does he need to log out in order to keep from losing the ability to communicate in “real” life? Expert opinions abound on each side of this debate. Ultimately, you and your family will need to decide on how much is too much when it comes to time spent online. Remember, though, it’s not all about how many hours your child clocks every day; how they use this time is equally important.
### Are Social Media Networks Safe?
In short, the answer is “no,” social media networks are not completely safe for kids or even adults. There are many threats out there in cyberspace from online predators to cyberbullying and even identity theft. The reality, though, is that social media is here to stay, and if your child isn’t already on Facebook, Twitter, or Tumblr, the day will come when they will want to be, so you need to be prepared.
### How Can I Protect My Child Online?
The Web can be a dangerous place for kids. Naturally, you want to do what you can to keep them safe. However, a “no Internet” policy may be difficult if not impossible to enforce. That’s why our advice is to talk to your children often about safe usage and use parental monitoring software to keep you informed about their latest activity.
Ready to get started? Find out why Qustodio is the Internet’s best parental control software.
