Top Ten Ways to Protect Our Children from Technology

November 19, 2013

My dad always told me that I would never be able to get away with anything because he had already done it. Wise, however, we can’t say that to our kids. Today, our kids can get into trouble and get into dangerous situations that we never imagined possible. Here are a few ways we can protect our children from technology:

10. Data and electronic communications should be considered permanent. Teach your kids to assume that posted and sent pictures will turn up when they have children of their own.

9. Invest in good internet filtering and parental controls. It’s easier than it sounds.

8. Keep your password a secret. Teach your kids to keep theirs a secret as well, except when it comes to you. As parents, you should know every password your children use… always!

7. Webcams and digital cameras are dangerous, more dangerous than most people realize. Invest in a roll of electrical tape.

6. Computers, used by children and kids, should be located in family areas, in full view of parents.

5. Never assume that a 13-year-old boy on the internet is in fact a 13-year-old boy.

4. No secrets. Parents should regularly review instant messaging, texts and email. It’s no different than knowing who your kids are hanging out with or where they are at all times.

3. Require that you are always a “friend” on your children’s Social Media sites (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.)

2. Take ownership of all technology. My kids know that it is my house. My rules. My technology. I have the right to take and look at anything that they use. Their cell phone and computer are mine on loan to them. Yes, even if they paid for them.

1. Learn the technology before you allow your kids to use it. Know what it is used for and how it is being used. If you are too busy to understand it, then your kids don’t need it. Parting words: “My Dad always told me that I would never be able to get away with anything because he had already done it. Wise, however, we can’t say that to our kids. Today, our kids can get into trouble and get into dangerous situations that we never imagined possible.”

To hear Scott further explain, listen to his WGVU “Tech Talk” segment with Shelley Irwin here.