Keeping Kids Safe – and Learning! – Online

Raising kids has always been challenging, but the advancing technology and round-the-clock media consumption that define the 21st century have added even more challenges to the mix. It is no longer enough to teach them right from wrong on the playground and in your home. Now a parent is called to help shape a host of new skills, sometimes dubbed 21st century skills, to prepare the child to be a productive member of this digital society. These skills include flexibility, initiation, collaboration, creativity and, perhaps above all, media literacy.

While it’s not your sole responsibility to educate your child in the workings of the digital world, there is plenty you can do to get your child on the way to having sound judgment and discernment when it comes to the many facets of technology and media. Here are just a few tips.

Protect Them Online

Stick around. When they’re surfing, be nearby. Keep the computers and iPads in common rooms, not in a child’s bedroom.

Limit usage. Allow your child to have free online time for a limited amount of time right after school (or whenever their “me” time is) to IM friends, play games, or visit social networking sites, but don’t let that time stretch too far (or segue into hours of TV or gaming time).

Follow up. Check your child’s browser history to know where your child goes online, and check those sites regularly. Don’t be shy about using security tools and privacy features — whether offered by your browser, Internet service provider, or purchased separately — for extra protection.

Choose Apps and Games Wisely

Stay in charge. Be the one to OK (or deny) the apps and games they wish to buy and play online and on mobile devices. Technology should encourage active, not passive, learning. Just because it’s popular doesn’t mean it’s good for your kids.

Look for skills development. Select games and apps that reinforce skills such as hand-eye coordination, memorization, dexterity, critical thinking and creativity. Read product descriptions and reviews closely, and look for whether an app or game has been endorsed or reviewed by an educational organization.

Watch the ads. Be careful of free or “lite” versions of apps or programs, as these will include advertisements that may be inappropriate. You can, however, use these to review the content before purchasing a premium version.