This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of OvernightGeek University for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.
Today I wanted to talk to all of our blog readers about a very important topic ~ protecting our kids when they use the internet via computers, gaming systems, smart phones, tablets, etc. As a grandmother to a 4 year old, god mother to a 7 year old and an aunt to many…I have thoroughly educated myself on this particular topic.
When the kids come to visit my husband and I…they always want to get online and play video games, browse kid-friendly web sites, etc. As someone who allows them to do this (in our presence), it is important that we are aware of all of the dangers out there and to protect our children from becoming victims.
When we allow the kids to use anything here at our home that has internet access, we insist on being in the same room with them as they are using it. We also have Parental Controls set on some of the devices that they use while visiting us which also helps to protect them. (a lot of parents don’t take the time out to learn about setting Parental Controls on various devices but trust me, it’s an important thing to do!).
Next, every time they are here…we sit & talk with them about the dangers that are present online and how to avoid them. They are NOT allowed to touch email at all, they are not allowed to download anything, they can’t upload photos of any type and we do NOT allow them to be on any social media sites. These kids are just too young to hang out on social media!
For those of you who have children or who have children who visit you…there is an online site called OvernightGeek University which offers Online Internet Safety Classes for Parents. These classes are VITAL to protecting the children who may be using gaming systems, cell phones, tablets and computers to get online.
An ounce of prevention can go a LONG way at protecting your kids and in-turn…it’s a wise investment in protecting your entire family. When a crime occurs, it affects more than just one member in a family. Take the steps TODAY to ensure that everyone in your household is a safe internet user.
I’m glad that you are discussing this. There are many hidden dangers out there. Kids – and parents – often aren’t aware or don’t realize all that can happen online. My grown daughter is taking some free online courses offered through out local library and one is on Guiding Kids on the Internet. It talks about safety measures and safe sites for kids. I’m glad that places are offering free advice and help for adults. Plus, it gets people talking about safety.
I agree that it is so important to know how to protect chicldren from the dangers on the internet. They must understand that there are problems and what not to do, especially if they are visiting a friend. I think that online safety internet classe for parents is a great idea.