Protecting your child from age-inappropriate apps and websites requires a combination of parental controls, open communication, and digital literacy education. Here’s a some tips to help you keep your child safe online:
1. Use Parental Control Tools
- Device-Level Controls:
- IOS (Apple) Use Screen Time to restrict app downloads, block inappropriate content, and set time limits.
- App & Website Blockers:
- Monitor and block inappropriate content.
- YouTube Kids (instead of regular YouTube) for child-friendly videos.
2. Set Up Age-Appropriate Accounts
- Create child profiles on devices (e.g., Netflix Kids, Google Family Link).
- Use app stores with restrictions (e.g., require a password for downloads).
3. Educate Your Child About Online Safety
- Teach them to avoid sharing personal info (name, school, location).
- Explain what inappropriate content looks like and what to do if they see it (e.g., close the app and tell a parent).
- Encourage critical thinking about ads, scams, and fake links.
4. Monitor & Supervise Usage
- Keep devices in common areas (not bedrooms).
- Check browsing history and app usage regularly.
- Have regular conversations about what they’re doing online.
5. Use Safe Alternatives
- Replace risky apps (TikTok, Snapchat) with kid-friendly alternatives:
- Messaging: Messenger Kids (Facebook)
- Games: Minecraft
- Video: PBS Kids, Khan Academy Kids
6. Encourage Open Communication
- Let your child know they can come to you if they see something upsetting.
- Avoid over-punishing for mistakes—focus on learning instead.
7. Balance Control with Trust
- Gradually give more freedom as your child proves responsible.
- Lead by example—model healthy screen habits.
With ParSon, ParSon can be used to support your kid’s online safety when using devices that connect to the internet, preventing exposure to harmful content, reducing distractions, and promoting better digital habits.
App Lock function
- parents can decide which apps your kid uses and hide apps that are inappropriate for them to use.
Block inappropriate websites
- Parents can block inappropriate websites for kids with limited access to inappropriate sites.