With the changed system of online learning, the time children spend online has increased at a drastic rate. As fascinating as the world of the Internet is, responsible use of it must be taught to kids so that they use it only for learning and useful purposes and do not put themselves or the system at any risk.
These are the nine essential lessons every parent should be teaching their children about cyber safety:
Sensible Online Presence
While the internet is such a crowded place and you might think something you post has no significance, but it is viewed by everyone who has access to it. One can transcribe, quote and take a screenshot of it. It can be edited, taken out of context and uploaded to a hundred different websites.
Parents must encourage the children to be watchful of the content they post and how it might influence them and other Internet users, both now and in the future. With our online curriculum, we constantly remind children to use the technology responsibly so that they can receive the best online learning.
Sensitivity and Parental Control
Instead of adjudicating to rule the Internet with a rigid approach, make way for open and honest dialogue. You must encourage your Children to be transparent about their online activity. Start early by collaborating with them and establishing ground rules.
Trust your children to make the right choices. This will ultimately allow them to take better ownership of their online safety.
Privacy and Safety
Most kids learn how to share from a young age, but you’ll need to teach them that there are some things they should always keep to themselves: their passwords. Teach your children not to share their Password, Location, Phone number, offensive content and other personal information without any other information.
Dealing with cyberbullying
Bullying has now extended far beyond school and playground. The use of technology to threaten, harass or embarrass another person is common among children and teenagers. When you establish ground rules on internet use, make sure you cover this topic as well. This must include some specific strategies to tackle cyberbullying. They may also wish to report or block the cyberbully via the social media app. Also, teach your child to refrain from responding or entertaining bullies.
Engagement and Access
The Internet can be a tempting place but the dangers of falling prey to clickbait and allowing programs to make change your system can have a bad effect on the children. Tell them that they must check with you before clicking suspicious links and installing such apps.
Many online attacks specifically target children, which can potentially lead to malware infection or identity fraud. Educate your children about the dangers involved with downloading game hacks, pirated software, and entering scam competitions.
Balance
Balance is certainly the key to healthy internet usage. Technology plays a central role in our day-to-day lives, children need to engage in other hobbies and interests to continue developing as healthy, well-rounded people.
Even when the classrooms become safe for education and we return to normal, the internet is still gonna be there. Your Child has explored the digital world and technology will play an important role in his life. Therefore, you must monitor his online usage and guide him to become a sensible, smart and safe internet user. This will not only aid in him receiving the best online learning but develop his perception, character and social image.
