Have you ever wondered what your kids are searching online when they are browsing the Internet? Children frequently search online for every question and could thus be exposed to objectionable content or malicious users, bullies etc. You cannot possibly impede their online searches as you may not have all the answers or they may feel uncomfortable to ask you something. On the other hand, they find it quite easier to Google their inquiry to clear doubts, fears and satisfy their inquisitive mind. Thus, you are most likely to be unaware of their questions and online queries. Since they use search engines to seek answers and explore, their online queries will not be visible from browser histories. But, fortunately there are some other ways you can manage to monitor what your kids search online.
Filter search engines and be with them
To track online search stories of kids, you need using Internet filters or applications to restrict their Internet access. At the same time, you need to make sure that you use the safest search settings that would be able to block keywords or phrases such as ‘adult’ and ‘dating’ etc. You need to spend time with kids while they are online, co-operate with them and show interest in their queries so that they will not be uncomfortable anymore to be online in your presence. You need to be with them especially when they are browsing YouTube or any video sharing websites which may reveal objectionable visual content. Consider searching for age specific websites and resources that contain entertaining content which are appropriate for kids under 7 years old. You need to impart them on the fundamentals of safe Internet behavior.
Safe Search Option
Kids of 7 to 10 years old develop certain maturity level to understand risks involved in the Internet. Your 10 year old kid might want to know about the human body, but search engines cannot differentiate between the curiosity of a 10-year-old and of a 30-year-old. Hence, your kids could be exposed to inappropriate search results; sex and porn are to name a few. The best way you can restrict this is to set ‘Safe-search’ modes and stay transparent and amiable with your kids to make them feel welcoming when they find anything upsetting. At the same time, make sure the computer is placed at a central location to facilitate you to monitor what they browse on the Internet.
Discuss and differentiate between legal from illegal content
Your kids could be glad to discover about free downloads of games, films, images or music from different sources. You need to explain that many file-sharing networks, peer-to-peer offering free downloadable content are copyright-protected. In that case, they could be accessing illegal content or some websites even contain spyware and malware in downloads which can crash computers.
Teach online behavior and online privacy
You must teach your kids about the value for online privacy and how they should behave in the cyberspace and on social networks. There are some kid-focused social networking websites that give parents full control over their use and friend invites, selection of networks and communities. For example, kids below 13-year may use Togetherville instead of using Facebook that adults are using. Kid-oriented social networking websites give control on what type of people your kids will meet and what type of information they should share.
Cyberbullying
This is one of the most threatening dangers lurking in the Internet. Cyberbullying is horrible and ubiquitously spread in the cyberspace. Make sure you have made your kids aware of cyberbullying activities and type of websites to avoid those users.
Along with this, also find out the safe Internet surfing tips for the entire family.
