Throughout the United States, the majority of children have access to the internet. Children having this access means they have the opportunity to play games and communicate with friends online. Unfortunately, having access to the internet also means children face many dangers that come with the internet. 

As a parent or guardian, you may be concerned about how you can keep your children safe on the internet. National Educational Services is here to provide you with all the information you need to make sure your kiddos understand and practice online safety.

Internet Safety 101

With internet access, there are so many things you are able to do, but yet all of these things are not necessarily appropriate for children. As parents, you need to be aware of the dangers your children face online and teach your children what types of content should be avoided. Some of the most common internet dangers are listed below:

Violent Content 

If your children are repeatedly exposed to violence on the internet, it can lead to tragic incidents. Children are very easily influenced by the content they view and if they are frequently viewing violent content, they may perceive it to be reasonable. 

Cyberbullying 

Studies show that about half of teens across America are victims to cyberbullying. Cyberbullying is most frequently done through social media, and it can cause very tragic consequences for the victim. 

Identity Theft 

While identity theft may not seem like it would affect children, it is becoming more common amongst children. This is due to the simple fact that children have untouched credit reports and often post too much personal information online.

Internet Safety Tips

Now that we have informed you of the dangers your children face on the internet, you are probably wondering how you can ensure your children are safe online. This all comes down to how much you as a parent or guardian understand the internet and how your children use the internet. 

Listed below are some great internet safety tips for your children to follow while they are having fun online: 

1. Use parental controls 
2. Explain the importance of social media safety 
3. Monitor your children’s posting online 
4. Develop ground rules for the internet 
5. Express the importance of using secure websites 
6. Inform your children about cyberbullying and harassment online 
7. Make sure your child is using strong passwords
8. Explain the dangers of meeting friends online 
9. Protect your kid’s identity 
10. Monitor what your child is downloading 
11. Emphasize that if your child has any questions about the internet, that they can come talk to you!

Cyber Safety is a Top Priority. 

There is nothing more important than parental control and guidance when it comes to making sure your children are safe online. As a parent, you have to teach your children all about the dangers of the internet and how they can avoid these dangers. 

Keep Your Families Protected Online with Identity Theft Insurance from National Public Employee Alliance.

If you don’t know where to start, contact an advisor at National Public Employee Alliance for more information about internet safety and identity theft protection.