If you thought you could lock your kids out of the internet before the pandemic, try doing that now, it’s almost impossible! The pandemic has us resorting to online/remote means to work, keep the learning going on, and to have a connection with the outside world. Thereby, billions of children in the world are now having to spend more time than usual on the internet.
The internet is no doubt a wonderful tool that enhances children’s learning, equips them with opportunities, problem-solving skills, and a host of other benefits. It however has its numerous downsides, which could have long term effects on children. Hence, the need to spread the word about Digital Safety- keeping your children safe online.
Some common dangers children can be exposed to on the internet are:
- Cyberbullying: This is the act of sending negative, or harmful content about someone else through digital devices.
- Contact with Predators: An online predator is someone who sexually abuses a child over the internet. Children’s contact with online predators happens mostly on social media chat rooms or in the chat feature of multiplayer games
- Consuming inappropriate content: Inappropriate content ranging from pornography to violence and criminal behavior can be found on the internet.
- Online Scams: Children could fall victim to hackers. Hackers steal information from unsuspecting persons in order to have access to information or funds.
These dangers are threats to children’s lives and families at large. They could lead to rape, kidnapping, depression, loneliness, fraud, and even death! You can read more about the dangers HERE.
If you’re a parent, here are some tips to help you protect your child from dangers present in the digital world, in no particular order:
- Talk to your child about Online Safety.
- Set Clear Expectations.
- Set up Parental Control Applications, some are, Net Nanny, Norton Family KidLogger, etc.
- Teach your child to keep personal information off the internet.
- Ensure to let them know their rights and to respect the right of others.
- As parents become familiar with online safety tools.
Endeavor to engage your children both online and offline during this period, you need to be actively involved to monitor and ensure safe online activity.
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This post was written by the Safe Schools Team. Safe Schools is the go-to and leading provider of school safety services and training in Nigeria and other cities/countries. Safe Schools helps school leaders and owners create and maintain a safety system for schools designed to help them achieve safety compliance, and a safe and healthy learning and work environment.
For more information, please visit their website at – www.safeschoolsintl.com . You can also contact them via email hello@safeschoolsintl.com or Call/Text or WhatsApp on – +234-803-8833-654
