How to keep your kids safe online (in a constantly changing world)

Struggling to keep up with your kids' online usage?

Feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of apps, devices and new technology?

Constantly fighting with over how long they can use the internet for? Well, no more! 

In today's world, we, as mums, know the importance of staying on top of what the kids are doing online, to make sure they are safe at all times.

And with the following tips from CyberSafeIreland, you'll be able to relax the next time your child asks if they can Google something. 

1. Start the conversation now

As soon as your child shows interest in your phone or tablet, talk about what's OK and what's not OK to do online in an age-appropriate manner. And keep the conversation going as they grow up and start investing even more time online. The more you talk about it the more they will open up about things they've seen. 

2. Do your research

Check out the apps and games that your child is using or wants to use. Download it yourself or watch videos on YouTube to see what functionality it has. Look, in particular, at whether it has a chat facility, how to apply safety/privacy settings and how to report abuse.

3. Agree the rules

Put appropriate boundaries in place and apply them consistently, e.g. where they can use their devices, who can be on their friends lists, what behaviour is acceptable, and not to share location. Most importantly, keep an eye on what your children are doing online.