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Would it surprise you to know that kids are using phones and web enabled devices to cheat on tests?
Did you know that some game websites that are geared for kids, may have games that contain more adult content?
Did you know that kids teach each other how to get around the filters on school computers to go to banned websites?
These are a few of the topics I discussed with a group of parents at a friends church last week. The theme was “Parenting in the Digital Age” and the group consisted mainly of parents of kids younger than eleven. Some of the parents I spoke with weren’t quite sure how to stay ahead of their kids.
With all the technology that is available to young kids today, it is important for parents to take charge and be aware of the technology you bring into your home starting from a young age. I shared what works for me and keeps me savvy to the things my kids are doing online and off.
Kids will always want the latest device, game, phone, but what does that item “X” do? I take advantage of my kids’ enthusiasm for the new item by taking five minutes and having them tell me all about “X”. I question them long enough to get an idea if this is something I feel comfortable letting them have.
Here are some possible questions to ask:
1. Does it have Internet access?
2. Does the device or game have a chat feature?
3. What is the rating, if it is a game and why did it get that rating?
4. Can you play with people? If so, can you block users?
5. Can I block or filter the features?
6. Is there an age recommendation/limit?
If I have time, I use the internet to not only search for the best price but also to read reviews. Websites such as Amazon.com are full of user reviews that can give you a hint about the features and whether you want to buy “X” for your child. If it is an online game, I check out the site itself and read up on the features when my kids aren’t around. I might see what I can find about the game by conducting a search on Google or Yahoo.
We then go see the item at the store the next time we are out. I then have the store clerk tell me all about item “X” as well. This flushes out some of the things my child may have left out, but it also might clue me into features such as parental controls, monthly fees and compatibility with my pc.
It takes a bit of time and effort to do this, but I am the parent and it is my money. It helps me to keep tabs on what my kids are doing so I can guide their choices but it also teaches them to be a savvy consumer. It’s a win/win in my book!
Stay Safe out there!
Tracy
Find me on Twitter @McAfeeCyberMom
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Tags: how to talk to kids, how to talk to teens, kids online behavior, parental controls