e-safety
In the UK we are used to having controls, regulators and watchdogs that preside over areas of the media like TV and newspapers, including the 9 o’clock watershed on TV, pin numbers on satellite TV systems, the Press Complaints Committee, Ofcom and so on. However, at the moment, there are no such limits on the world wide web and it falls to us as parents and teachers to protect our children from the worst excesses of the internet. Here are some ways of ensuring that your child gains the benefits whilst staying safe online.
Use a Child Friendly Search Engine
Google is the most widely used search engine in the world, used by millions, but the very fact that you can use it to find practically anything at all means it is not appropriate for children. To give your child a safe experience of the internet try installing instead one of the following search engines specially designed for use by children.
http://www.safekids.co.uk/ChildFriendlySearchEngines.html
Unsuitable Internet Content
Sadly, some of the most innovative, exciting websites on today’s internet can be damaging for your child due to the type of content that can be accessed through them. You may want to think seriously about whether you want your child to have access to YouTube, Facebook, Skype (with webcams) and so on. A rule of thumb should be that if you are not sure what your child is accessing then try it out yourself.
Parental Control Software
Restrict your child’s access to unsuitable websites and limit the amount of time they can use the internet by using parental control software. There are several ways to do this:
- Many internet service providers such as Virgin and BTinternet include parental options with your broadband package.
- Use the inbuilt parent controls that are part of Windows or Mac operating systems. Check the Which? website for an evaluation of what is available on different computers -
- Buy and download control software from the internet. Find details to help you download software on the Which? website –
Tips for Safe Internet Use
Limit the amount of time your child spends on the internet/games console.
Talk to your child. Find out what they do online. Encourage responsibility – their online actions have real life consequences.
Ensure all internet access takes place in a public room in the house.
Install parental control software and a child friendly search engine on their account.
Don’t share passwords, and keep your online shopping details secure.
Ensure everyone in your family is aware of the Report Abuse icon and what it stands for.
Information and Support
