How to keep kids safe online in an age of technology

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) — Kids have more access to the Internet than ever, so it’s important to keep them safe while using the web.

Dr. Nichole Lemmon with Springfield Public Schools says monitoring what your children are doing online is essential.

“I think the number one thing we want to remember is that, you know, our kids need to be parented, and the device that they’re on actually belongs to you, the parent. And so just remembering that and being mindful of that is the very first thing when we’re talking to parents about keeping their kids safe online, so remembering that you’re in charge of that device,” said Dr. Lemmon.

Keeping devices limited to public spaces is a great way to start. Also, consider using parental controls.

“My favorites are limiting time on a device, so shutting that down at a certain time of day, or when she’s used up too much of her time, limiting app download. So I have to put my code in for that device to download that and then limit contacts so that, again, I have to approve whoever’s added to that device. And those are all built-in and don’t require any additional subscription fees,” said Dr. Lemmon.

There’s good and bad to letting kids online. You always want to remember you don’t know who’s on the other end of that device.

“The bad side is you’re essentially letting the world into your home and into your child’s life. And so the more that you can gatekeep that a little bit, slow that down a little bit, the more we’re going to be able to keep our children safe. We don’t know who’s on the other end of that device,” said Dr. Lemmon.

And remember, it’s okay to be the parent, not the friend.

“I really want to tell parents, you know, it’s okay to put limits on your children. It’s okay to say, I don’t want you to have this app, and if it makes you the uncool parent, then you’re probably doing your job today,” said Dr. Lemmon.

Remember that it’s okay to use controls and maintain balance. Kids can use the Internet, but it’s important to be safe.

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