You rely on internet access for entertainment, education, and social interaction, and your children will follow suit. While the internet is an excellent resource, it’s also dangerous for your kids when you don't put safety measures in place and teach them how to maneuver around the world wide web. To ensure your children stay safe while being online, follow the essential tips.

Safety

Before showing your children proper internet etiquette, you need to understand how the web functions. Monitoring your children while they use the computer will help them know what information is appropriate to share. Chat rooms and social media websites encourage kids to reveal their e-mail to others, so use a shared e-mail account to monitor their messages. Block inappropriate or age-restricted websites from them, while also bookmarking sites they like to visit for easy access.

It's essential to explain why you're doing this because children are curious and want to explore the world. They won’t understand why something isn't safe due to their limited social knowledge. Explain how revealing information, like their phone number, address, or school’s name will attract people with bad intentions; furthermore, express that you want to protect them, not limit their freedom.

Limit Usage

Kids and teens ages 5 to 18 benefit from limited internet access because they’ll browse websites on their phone or the computer, rather than get proper amounts of sleep. In addition, discourage the use of mobile devices in their room when they’re doing homework or interacting with other members of the family. Schoolwork and socializing take priority over entertainment, since both directly affect their learning and networking capabilities.

Treating screen time as a privilege will help them understand that going on the internet is earned after chores and other necessities are completed. When limiting internet and tech use, encourage other activities for them to indulge in by placing books, puzzles, and other games in the home.

Promote "Good/Educational" Content

When your child wants to play computer or mobile games, determine whether they’re age-appropriate by looking at the rating. The ESRB has ratings ranging from E (Everyone) to AO (Adults Only), with Teen (13+) and Mature (17+) being common ratings. The age range for these ratings isn't a hard and fast rule; only you as a parent can determine if your child’s capability to handle certain subject matters in video games.

To understand how the game is played, and if it provides a positive experience for your child, play the game yourself. Puzzle, platforming, crafting, and Role-Playing Games are usually appropriate for children ages 7+.

When you’re looking for an internet provider that provides bundles to suit your family’s needs, contact TSC in Wapakoneta and Saint Marys, OH. Since 1921, they’ve provided telecommunication services at a low-cost with reliable service throughout the region. Along with internet access, TSC also provides cable, web hosting, and landline telephone services. Visit them online for more information on their phone and cable packages, or call today at (419) 739-2200 to sign up.