With so much of our lives depending on the internet today, we must teach our kids safe and responsible online behaviour as soon as possible. We should do this not only to help them stay safe but also to make sure that they are not the ones causing trouble online. So, without further ado – here’s how to do it.
1. Teach Them To Use Proper Language
You should tell your kids that using proper language is the key to not being misunderstood online. They should learn, early on, all the little nuances of online language. You should tell them that the way they speak to their friends is not the same way they should be talking to their teachers, for example. Also, teach them how to use emojis and tell them that all caps is not quite appropriate.
2. Teach Them Not To Overshare
Kids like to talk, and unlike adults, they don’t really have a filter. So, it is entirely possible that they overshare when talking to someone online. So, sit them down and tell them that some things must be kept quiet. For instance, private conversations that they overhear around the house are not meant to be shared. Neither are personal information like home address, passwords etc. You will have done half of the job if you manage to teach them this.
3. Teach Them Not To Arrange Meetings With Strangers
Internet is a wonderful place, but it is also a quite dangerous one. Therefore, you should do your best to teach your kids not to arrange meetings with people they don’t know. Explain the dangers to them, and urge them to be as reserved and private as possible when talking to strangers. Or, even better, teach them not to talk to strangers until they’re old enough to take proper care of themselves. And, if you want to make sure your kids stay safe, you can always rely on the likes of Chamspy Pro and stay aware of your child’s whereabouts at all times.
4. Teach Them About Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying is a major issue in the modern world. Therefore, you want to make sure that your child is neither on giving nor the receiving end. Teach them how to be polite and respectful to others, but also how to stand up for themselves. Kids can be cruel, but they’re also sensitive, and the stuff that happens to them early on sticks with them for a long time, so make sure you talk to them about this issue.
5. Lead By Example
Finally, all of the things we said will go down the drain if they catch you doing the opposite. Kids will pick up on various things from you and will try to emulate your behaviour, and if you’re all talk and no show – talking won’t really matter. So, make sure you not only tell them how to stay safe and responsible online but also show them how to do it. Lead by example!
Conclusion:
There you have it. Those were our tips on how to teach your kids to stay safe and be responsible when they inevitably enter the online world. Hopefully, you’ve found this helpful.
