#TeacherBlogger: INTERNET SAFETY FOR CHILDREN By, Virginia Isaac, IGCSE Teacher, Ekya Schools, Byrathi

Children of today don’t know a world without the internet. The online approach for information and entertainment to them is as simple as breathing. Pre and post Pandemic, this digitally-powered universe has provided an opening to vast new worlds of learning and opportunity. Nevertheless, this new world poses a great challenge and threat to their safety, as children often tend to be very casual about their usage of this medium. Internet safety becomes the highest priority for every parent and teacher who comprehends the dangers that prowl – bullies, predators and cybercriminals. Teaching children about handling and operating the internet safely can protect them from these dangerous forces and instill a valuable lesson on becoming responsible digital citizens.

Why Kids Need Protection on The Internet

Computers and the internet have become essential for students — for work, play, or school assignments — it can become more burdensome for parents and teachers to protect their children from numerous threats on the Web.

Children can be exposed to various threats online such as contact with anonymous people, predators, cyberbullies and phishing scammers as these unfamiliar beings can trick children to reveal sensitive information about themselves or their families.

Inappropriate content which contains violence, obscenity, and pirated materials can be viewed leading them into dangerous waters. Over and above, due to unmonitored operation, computers can be overloaded with malicious programs and malware infections too.

How can children be protected online?  

Without a doubt, the question that crosses our minds is “How can we provide online safety for children?” Often adults presume that parental control requires a thorough knowledge of the technical aspects of online security and consider it an arduous task. However, Internet security software has become so accessible and convenient that virtually any parent can use it to protect their children from any online threats.

For Parents

Taking away the device is not the solution, though, for some parents, that seems to be an effortless option. But owing to the tremendous benefits of the internet, the key to resolving the issue is to teach children about the internet safety requirements, so they can build their own shield and protection while exploring the digital world. These are a few ways in which parents can assist their children to do so.

1. Monitor and Manage the child’s access to the internet
2. Establish ground rules
3. Build an atmosphere of trust
4. Talk to them about the potential dangers online
5. Use Child Safe Search Engine
6. Install a rigorous antivirus product

For Children. 

Acquainting children about online dangers should be the first and foremost aspect while introducing internet access to them. They need to know that in an online environment, the danger is not lurking around the corner but right inside their home and it is hard to escape if they do not follow precautions and the skills required to handle the equipment and technology.

1. Avoid talking to strangers online

Anything shared on the internet is shared forever

Some links, downloads, and websites can make computers sick

Block and report online predators

1. Showing restraint while searching for information
2. Consult an adult while accessing new websites
3. Never open a site which is misleading or suspicious.

Though the internet is a familiar construct for many people, it can be an open invitation to various hazards as it comes with its own set of opportunities and obstacles as it sweeps the globe in an expeditious manner. Children are now born into an Internet-equipped world and this technology permeates everything they do, from school to home to play, and perpetual connectivity has caused no shortage of alarm. Nevertheless, with mindful parents and adults, it can be transformed into a boon in the hands of the next generation.