Online Safety & Digital Well-Being for Kids: A Parent’s Resource

Use Filters and Blocking Tools: Set up parental controls on devices, apps, and your home Wi-Fi to block inappropriate content. Most internet service providers (ISPs) offer tools that allow you to restrict content and control screen time.

Monitor App Permissions: Regularly review app permissions and block unnecessary access to location, camera, or personal data.

Create a Family Internet Agreement: Discuss and agree upon rules for internet usage, including:

1. Time limits on screen time (See "Limit Screen Time" below.)

2. Approved websites and apps

3. Online behavior expectations (e.g., no sharing of personal information)

4. Sample Agreement from the Department of Homeland Security

Supervised Browsing: Ensure younger children only use the internet when an adult is present. For older kids, teach them to use kid-safe browsers or websites.

• See "Use Child-Friendly Platforms" below.

Personal Information is Private: Teach children not to share personal information online, including their full name, address, phone number, school, or photos without parental approval.

Explain Online Stranger Danger: Make sure children understand that people they meet online may not always be who they claim to be, and they should never engage in conversations with strangers.

Child-Safe Browsers and Apps:  Encourage the use of websites and apps designed specifically for kids, such as YouTube Kids or other safe platforms with curated content.

Age-Appropriate Games: Stick to games with appropriate ratings, ensuring they do not expose children to harmful content, in-game chat features, or external interactions with strangers.

Online Reputation: Explain that things posted online can stay there forever. Encourage positive behavior and explain that negative actions online can have lasting consequences.

No Cyberbullying: Teach your child about being kind online, not participating in or encouraging bullying behavior, and what to do if they see or experience cyberbullying.

Delay Social Media: Encourage your child to delay using social media until they are older. Most platforms have a minimum age requirement of 13.

Monitor Messaging Apps: Keep an eye on apps that allow direct messaging. Disable messaging features if possible, or check chats regularly.

Recognize Ads and Scams: Teach children to recognize online advertisements, pop-ups, and potential scams, such as fake contests or requests for personal information.

Avoid Clicking on Links: Instruct them not to click on pop-ups, ads, or unknown links without checking with you first.

Encourage Questions: Make sure your child feels comfortable coming to you with questions or if they see something that makes them uncomfortable online.

Enforce Time Limits: Set clear rules about how long your child can spend online each day. Consider using apps that track or limit screen time.

Offline Activities: Encourage a balance between online activities and offline hobbies, like outdoor play or reading.

Set an Example: Model the type of internet behavior you want your child to follow by using screens responsibly and maintaining a healthy balance between online and offline time.

Practice Safe Habits: Be transparent about your own online habits, like not sharing personal information or engaging in risky behavior.

Protect Devices: Install up-to-date antivirus software on devices to protect against viruses, malware, and phishing scams.

Use Strong Passwords: Teach children about the importance of using strong, unique passwords and never sharing them.

Keep Up with Technology: Stay updated on new platforms, apps, and trends to understand what your child might be using.

Join Parental Communities: Join online communities or forums where parents discuss internet safety trends, tips, and challenges.