HOW PARENTS CAN MONITOR/PROTECT CHILDREN ONLINE – MARTIN-SWABY

• Be vigilant. Monitor children on the Internet.

• Research the applications (apps) your children wish to download and evaluate the nature of their content.

• Examine the app to satisfy yourself that no inappropriate material is subtly being displayed or introduced in advertisements or at the bottom of the screen.

• Parents should also discuss the dangers of accessing inappropriate content on the Internet and set boundaries as regards the content which should not be viewed.

• Be mindful of the fact that some applications pose particular risks, including anonymous messaging, and don’t allow the child to interact with strangers. This is extremely dangerous. Some apps/persons even introduce sexually animated videos and forms of violence.

• Be mindful that these applications which include chat rooms may expose children to predators. It must always be borne in mind that the Internet is an easy way to access child victims. Parents should also be aware of the age limits for applications which are downloaded. For example, Instagram and Tik Tok are for 13 years and older; Snapchat is 12 years and older; and Tumblr, 17 years and older.

Even where your child has attained the age to access these sites, it is important for parents to discuss which content is appropriate. Inappropriate content includes sexual and extremely violent material and is available at the click of a button.