Keeping tweens safe online is a huge responsibility for parents and guardians today. The internet plays a huge part in all of our lives and as tweens start to discover the depths of the online world, it is important to make sure what they’re doing is safe.
If you’re worried about your tween using the internet, we’ve shared some of our top tips to help ensure they are being safe and responsible online. Check them out below to help put your mind at ease.
Open communication
Have an open conversation with your child about the online world. Discuss what they may come across online and encourage them to ask you about any concerns or issues they may have when using the internet. Make sure they know there isn’t a risk of punishment or judgement if they want to approach you about something they’ve seen online.
Educate yourself
If you’re not on social media or don’t use the internet for much other than work, make sure to spend time learning about it so you can help your child if they have any concerns. Stay up-to-date on trends that may be on some social media platforms that could be potentially harmful to your tween if they want to take part.
Set rules
Have rules set in place about your child using the internet. You may be happy with your tween gaming online but don’t like the idea of them being on Twitter, or you don’t want them up all night looking at TikTok on their phone or iPad. Voice your boundaries so your tween knows there will be consequences if they don’t follow the rules.
Use parental controls
Try using parental controls on devices and browsers so inappropriate content will be filtered and websites can be restricted so your tween won’t be able to view them. This ensures that even if they want to go against your online safety rules, they won’t gain access to certain corners of the internet.
Teach safety & responsibility
Younger people often don’t see the danger in using the internet but it is up to you to teach them about online safety and responsibility. Highlighting the importance of not sharing private information like their address or school is so important, as well as deterring them from speaking to strangers online and making them aware of scams. Tell them about the possibility of online trolls and encourage them to never join in on bullying behaviour when using the internet. Remind them that their digital footprint is important and can come back to them later in life.
