The internet has created an entire world within our homes – Thanks to reputable Internet providers like att internet, we’re able to access information and entertainment faster than our ancestors could have dreamed of. We can meet friends, see plays, walk streets on the other side of the globe and create social media posts which allow others to see into our own world.
This is a wonderful thing, the internet has provided careers for many, connected families, solved mysteries, and continues to be a platform for many good causes. However, as we all know, there is a darker side to it. A shady section where vulnerable children are at potential risk. Internet predators are a very real issue and because so many of our children have a lot of access to the internet, it’s an issue we need to discuss with them from a very early age.
What age should my child be allowed on the internet?
It’s important that younger children are never left alone whilst browsing the internet. Small children who are under the age of 11, need close supervision. Parental controls should also be in place. Keep the device your child uses to access the internet in a communal area of your home. Never allow younger children to browse the internet alone in their bedrooms.
What rules should I discuss with my child?
First and most important is the ‘nobody needs to know my address or real name’ rule. If your child is using any social media and that includes the chat function on many online games, they need to know that people are not always who they say they are. Talk to them about how sometimes, people who are not children might use these games and that it’s very important that no personal details are shared.
Even if another user tells your child that they are also a child, your child should not share their name or address, their school or even their city. It can be overwhelming to consider all of this with younger children but it is much safer to arm your child with knowledge than to leave them ignorant of the facts.
Safe websites and fact-checking
Some websites are safer than others – the insecure sites are best avoided due to lax security or fake information. Discuss with your child the facts regarding what is true and what is not true. Let them know that anyone can write an article and publish it on the internet – so it is not always safe to believe that what is written there is true.
You can help older children learn how to fact-check. Teach them which websites are trusted sources for news and which are not. Some websites offer fun activities for children who prefer visual learning, others offer articles and podcasts which will engage all children. Each child learns differently as this private school in London points out – and as such you should encourage your child to explore websites of different types so they can find their favourites.
The most widely accepted sources for news, education and quality entertainment are as follows:
- BBC Bitesize
- National Geographic
- The National Trust
- NASA Visualisation Explorer
- Smithsonian History Explorer
- Natural History Museum
- Tate Kids
- Booktrust
The above sites are packed with informative articles and activities and you can rest assured that they are safe for children to browse.
*This is a collaborative post.
So much now in the news
Glad social media is introducing stricter rules