Technology is deeply integrated into our day to day. Our connected devices play important roles in family life from enabling communication to managing schedules, entertainment, and even education. With early access to technology, comes responsibility for parents. Jiobit’s expert Software Engineer who also doubles as a full-time parent shares his tips and tricks for keeping devices safe for kids.
1. Talk to them
Be involved and create boundaries that work for you and your kiddos before allowing them to log into a device. Have very clear rules and guidelines so your child understands the risks from the start. Guide them to avoid sharing personal information online - especially their real names.
2. Use screen time limitations
It's easy to lose track of time when you are in the middle of playing a game on your favorite app or scrolling through social media - the same goes for kids. Set screen time limitations. Use a self-timer or go into your phone settings and select specific apps to set daily time limits.
3. Protect your personal accounts from your child
Keep your accounts separate and log off before letting them log on. This is especially relevant for apps and websites that they should not be making purchases from (avoid waking up to unexpected Amazon packages).
4. Account management
Use a password manager or logbook to keep track of different accounts - including shared family accounts, your personal accounts, or specific to your child. Passwords can get leaked - to reduce the impact of this, avoid using the same password on multiple websites and use multi-factor authentication when possible.
5. Use parental controls
Learn what parental control options are available to you. Block certain websites, and download apps that will help manage your child's devices. To learn more about parental control app options, check out the article from Tom’s Guide, “The best parental control apps for Android and iPhone 2022”.
6. Only install apps you trust
This goes back to point #1. When setting clear boundaries and rules, it's okay for certain apps to be off limits. If there is an app you don’t trust, or if you are not comfortable having them use yet (ie; social media platforms) don’t download them, and keep them off limits.
Things may not go exactly as planned, as with anything in life. It's okay to be flexible and adjust your approach. Ask yourself how you can help your child have a healthy relationship with their devices and social networks as they become more immersed in technology.
We would love to hear from you. Let us know how your family keeps devices safe for your kids by tweeting us @jiobit
