Safe browsing tips to support children
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How to support safer browsing online
By teaching smart habits, using protective tools, and staying involved, you can help your child browse the web with confidence and curiosity while staying safe from online risks. Here are some tips to get you started:
1. Teach smart browsing habits
Equip your child with the knowledge they need to make good choices while browsing:
- Stick to child-friendly search engines: Tools like Kiddle and Swiggle provide safe search options for kids.
- Be cautious with clicks: Teach them to avoid pop-ups, ads, or unfamiliar links, which can sometimes lead to inappropriate or harmful content.
- Protect personal information: Explain why they should never share their name, address, or other personal details without checking with you first.
2. Use safe browsing tools
There are plenty of free or low-cost tools designed to create a safer browsing environment for kids:
- Google SafeSearch: Filters explicit content from search results and can be enabled on most devices.
- KidZui Browser: Offers a child-friendly browser experience with pre-approved websites for younger kids.
- AdBlock: Blocks potentially harmful ads, reducing distractions and risks from clicking on unsafe links.
3. Stay involved
The best way to ensure your child’s online safety is to stay engaged with their browsing habits:
- Talk about their interests: Ask what websites they visit and what they enjoy learning about.
- Review their activity together: Take time to check their browser history and discuss whether the sites they visit are appropriate.
- Keep browsing visible: Place devices in shared family spaces, such as the living room or kitchen, so you can casually monitor their use.
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