All Hallow's Blog

Navigating the Digital World: Promoting Online Safety and Digital Citizenship for Children

9th August 2023

With technology being the go to form of entertainment for many children it can be often overwhelming for parents to keep track of all the changes happening online.

While it is impossible to completely restrict the use of technology, there are ways parents can help promote the safe use of technology with children. Being able to talk about navigating the digital world and how appropriate content is for your child is key to ensuring their digital safety.

Parents need to be tech savvy and learn more about these online spaces, technology, and games to ensure they can help their children remain safe online.

So, what can you do?

How to make the internet safer at home

There are many things you can do at home to make the internet safer for your child. It might take some getting used to but with the internet and technology advancing as quickly, it’s important to learn the best ways to protect your children online.

Add parental controls

Depending on their age you may wish to set parental controls. This can be in the form of specific filters that block words, websites, or other things that aren’t appropriate for your children.

Within these parental controls you may be able to set time restrictions, which will lock your child out of the technology after a specified period has passed. Double check if your hardware or software has this functionality.

Have a conversation

Another thing you should do is to have age-appropriate open conversations about online safety. This may feel difficult, but explain in simple terms the importance of online safety and protecting your personal data.

Keep screens in view

Another thing you can do to help protect your children online is to always be within the vicinity when they are using any technology. Being able to see or view the screen at a glance means you can keep tabs on what your child is doing online and can intervene if needed.

Games and shows, what is appropriate for your children

There are many games and shows online that it can be difficult for parents to keep up. With various different streaming platforms and games available at the touch of a button, knowing what is or isn’t appropriate for your child might be difficult to decipher. In particular with overly cartoonized games or shows, what might seem friendly and safe for young eyes; might not be.

Parents know how to be on the ball in order to keep these things in check. So what can you do as a parent when it comes to games and shows that are appropriate for your children?

Watch the show

One of the first things you can do is watch the show separately from your child. Take the time to see if you think it is appropriate for them to watch. Look at your own family ethos and what you think your child is ready for and then allow them to watch or block the show.

Play the games

Similarly to shows, you can always play the game that has been requested. If it is a paid for game you may just want to look online for streamers who have done some run throughs of the game.

If the game is free to play, have a go at navigating the game and see what it is about. This is the best way to make an informed decision about allowing your child to play any game they request.

Set screen time

One of the biggest mistakes a parent can make is restricting something so drastically that a child no longer understands how to use a media or platform safely. Setting screen time will allow them to play or watch a show that you have deemed appropriate, but also sets a boundary.

Games and shows can be extremely addictive, and too much of a good thing isn’t ever good. Give them the opportunity to play or watch the show, but within a time frame. This allows them to learn how to navigate the platform as well as have you available to assist should anything happen.

In such an evolving world it may feel hard for parents to keep track. However, the more you get involved and support their interests and work out ways that they can enjoy and use digital technology and spaces safely; the easier it will be for children to open up about any concerns they may have.

If you are struggling with understanding how to keep your child safe online, speak to their teacher for support.

All Hallows is a boarding school located in Somerset. Our school offers boarding and education to children between the ages of 3 – 13 years old. Contact our admissions team for information on applying for a space.