HOW TO SAFEGUARD YOUR SAFETY ONLINE
A CHILD’S GUIDE
The internet has become a common tool for us to use nowadays especially after the Covid-19 Pandemic. We can use the internet for many things including playing online games like Scrabble, doing school research, doing homework and sometimes even attending classes using platforms such as Zoom.
Applications such as YouTube are also great for watching videos on entertainment like dance videos or for educational purposes. However, the internet can be a scary and bad place for children.
You can use the following tips to make the internet safer for you:
- Speak to your parents about online use
Before using the internet, make sure to speak with your parents on any applications you want to use. This allows them to give you advice on the applications you can use and how long you can stay on the internet.
- Make sure to use applications that are for your age or use the child version of the application
Most social media sites like Reddit, Facebook, Tiktok, Instagram and Twitter require you to be at least 13 years old to use the platform. Using the platform before this age is illegal and could lead to your account being closed down when found. For people above 13 years but not yet 18 years, it is still advised to have your parents guide you in your use of the apps. For YouTube, there is a kid’s version called YouTube kids where child-friendly content is posted.
- Come up with time limits for internet usage
Discuss with your parents on how much time you will spend on your electronic gadget every day. It is recommended to spend at most 1.5 hours only to allow you to have time for other activities such as playing, reading, eating and sleeping.
- Never share your personal information online
You should never share your full name, your location, your parent’s full names, your parent’s financial information or your age online. Avoid sharing your photos on social media platforms. If you are using a platform like Instagram and want to share your photos, you should make a private account that can only be accessed by your friends and family.
- Never click on any links and attachments online
These links could have viruses which may steal your information or stop your electronic devices from working.
I hope with some of these tips you are able to guard yourself online. Be your own online super hero!!!
John Ian
Facilitator- Batian group(11-14yrs)
Very well said…with internet all over now,safety for the kids is paramount.
Thank you Tr John. This is timely