Family Tech Setup 101: What to Install Before You Give Kids a Device
Do you know what your kids are accessing online? While tech devices can promote learning and communication, they can also be addictive. And they can give kids access to content you might not want them to see.
Fortunately, with a little bit of smart tech setup decisions, you can make your kid’s device safer. Read on as we guide you through the key features to install before giving your kid a device.
Install a Parental Control App
As a parent, you want to know what your kid is viewing on their new device. With a parental control app, you can always be aware. Many devices have built-in features that let you remotely control settings, but it’s smart to check first.
Parental controls let you block apps you don’t want your kid using. It can set screen time limits and restrict access to apps during overnight hours or school hours. You’ll also be able to track which apps get the heaviest use.
Ultimately, you’ll help your kid set healthy limits with device use. Whether they’re on a family vacation or studying for a test, you want your kids to be engaged in the moment rather than constantly distracted.
Look into a VPN to Enhance Online Safety
When your kid is at school or the library, they may be accessing their devices. While these places typically provide public Wi-Fi access, which is convenient, these networks can be a target for hackers.
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) offers a security measure that can protect your kid’s communication from intruders. Think of a VPN as a shield that encrypts online traffic.
It’s smart to shop for the best VPN service before letting your kid use their device outside the home. A tool such as Bitdefender, for instance, can cover up to ten devices, prevent unwanted ads, and keep your child’s location protected. At the same time, your kid won’t experience diminished internet speeds or app responsiveness, making a VPN a great layer of protection.
Turn on Safe Search Settings
While the internet can be a tool for learning, it also exposes your kid to information that may be too mature for them. As a parent, you want to curate what your child is able to access. By turning on safe search settings, you can do this.
Turn on these settings in any web browsers your kid uses. And consider adding family-focused browsers that are tailored to kids to keep away unwanted content. With these content filters in place, you won’t have to worry that your child is finding explicit videos or other materials online.
Enable Key Security Features
Does your kid’s device get automatic antivirus protection or other key updates? Make sure that you’ve enabled these protections on your kid’s phone or tablet.
Additionally, take time to help your kid set up a secure passcode. They need to understand that a mix of characters, letters, and numbers can offer stronger protection from intruders. Use two-factor authentication (2FA), too, for one more layer of security.
Safeguard Your Kid’s Device
Giving your child their first device can come with a lot of anxiety as a parent. But when you’ve equipped their phone or tablet with safety features, like parental control apps and a VPN, you can feel more confident that they are safe online. Make sure your child uses a strong passcode and activate safe search settings for them, as well.
With a careful approach, you can help your child navigate online resources safely so they can learn and grow.