Keeping up with the latest web enabled devices can seem to be an overwhelming task for any parent. As new devices constantly make their way into the consumer market it is important for parents to stay current with these popular devices their children use and lay down the ground rules for there safe use.
New Internet accessible electronic devices offer more ways for your child to interact online and will require parents to learn how these gadgets operate and identify the various ways they can be used to share personal information. Most of these electronic offerings include Internet browsers for surfing the web. Others may have the ability to take digital pictures or offer a web cam for recording or streaming video. Some devices may contain all these features. Parents that have purchased web enabled products for their kids are probably aware of the popular devices available to young consumers. The following products are some of the more popular offerings that will provide online access and require proper guidance to insure Internet safety. These include smartphones, PDA’s, gaming systems and Internet tablets.
The Apple iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, Blackberry smartphones, Nokia’s Internet tablets, Sony Playstation 3 and PSP, xbox 360, Nintendo Wii are some of the most popular devices offering Internet access. There are other devices including laptops and cell phones that parents should also take note of. These devices provide different options but will allow your kids to surf the Internet, send text messages or take and share photos/ videos. If you purchase any of these products for your child take the time to familiarize yourself with how they operate and can be used online. Make sure you discuss with your child proper use and risks associated with sharing personal information.
There can be at times a fine line between you and your child when it comes to your desire to keep them safe online and the perception of their privacy being invaded. Especially when it comes to providing Internet safety for teens. Most resentment from young people comes when they feel a parent is going behind their back or “spying” on them to find out what they are doing. This is where a parent can take charge by being upfront, open and honest with their expectations. Let your child know right from the start that you will be monitoring their behavior and checking on how they use the Internet. Communicate with them the Internet safety rules you expect them to follow and the consequences that will result if they do not follow your guidelines. Always stress the importance of not sharing personal information online and not agreeing to communicate or meet with any strangers.
Parenting can be tough at times but the task of providing Internet safety for our children is getting tougher. Indifference to or ignoring the importance of protecting children online will not make the situation better. By keeping the lines of communication always open with your child and stating your clear expectations right from the start parents can set the tone to provide a better online experience for their whole family and lessen the safety risks associated with using the Internet. Take the time to educate yourself and your kids with practical Internet safety rules today. It will be a rewarding set of skills to learn and time well invested.
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