This is a collaborative post
As soon as your child is given a device that allows them to access the internet, you should explore the concept of internet safety with them thoroughly and frequently to protect them from potential harm. There’s no denying that the internet is incredibly beneficial in many ways, but for someone who uses it naively or irresponsibly it can be quite dangerous. Here are some tips from a boarding school in Wiltshire on teaching your child to use the internet safely.
Show an Interest
Don’t just give your child a smartphone or tablet and leave them to it; you need to know what apps and websites they are using and determine whether or not they are safe and age-appropriate. Of course, you can check their device from time to time but this might be construed as an invasion of privacy, so you should talk to your child first and encourage them to be open and honest with you.
Establish Some Rules
Make sure your child is aware of some clear-cut rules when it comes to using the internet, and be sure to revisit these rules on a regular basis so they are not forgotten or missed. These could be things like:
- Never share personal information online e.g., address, telephone number, card details, passwords
- Never meet up with someone you have only spoken to online, especially without adult supervision
- Never share intimate photos of yourself
- Only use your smartphone/tablet/computer in communal areas of the house or with your bedroom door open
- Never make any online purchases, especially without adult supervision
Teach Your Child About Cyberbullying
Your child needs to understand what cyberbullying is so that they can recognise it if they see it happening, either to themselves or someone else. Help them understand that just because the bullying isn’t happening in person, it is still just as hurtful, if not more so. Encourage them to come to you or another responsible adult if they are aware of any instances of cyberbullying.
