Our expert rundown of parental controls
The internet is highly valuable.
Whether for work, education, social, or entertainment purposes, we all rely on broadband – and this now applies to children and young adults too! However, is it truly safe for our family’s younger, more naïve members?
We’ve provided an expert run down on the importance of selecting and implementing parental controls with your next broadband deal.
What Are Parental Controls?
Parental controls are a suite of tools and settings designed to help parents manage their children’s internet use.
These controls can be applied to a variety of digital environments, including online browsing, apps, games, and devices.
Why Do We Need Them?
The internet can be a wild and unpredictable place, making parental controls essential for keeping our children safe.
These tools ensure access to educational and age-appropriate content, promoting a healthy online experience. In return, parents and guardians get to enjoy total peace of mind.
We’ve gone on to explain the features and benefits in more detail below.
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Safety and Security
One of the primary reasons for implementing parental controls is to protect children from inappropriate content.
This includes shielding them from explicit material and harmful websites.
Parental controls can also play a vital role in preventing cyberbullying, ensuring that children have a safe and happy online experience.
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Screen Time Management
In today’s digital age, it’s easy for children to spend excessive amounts of time on their devices.
Distractions are everywhere and everything is online!
Did you know that on average, children aged between 5-16 spend around three hours per day online?
Parental controls allow parents to set time limits on device usage, encouraging a healthier balance between screen time and other activities such as homework, physical play, and family interactions.
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Content Filtering
Not all content available online is suitable for children.
How often do adults stumble onto something unintentional? Imagine how common this is for less internet-savvy children!
Parental controls can filter out content that is not age-appropriate, which includes blocking access to adult websites, violent games, and other potentially harmful content.
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Online Purchases Control
With many apps and games offering in-app purchases, it’s easy for children to make unauthorised transactions, sometimes racking up a hefty bill!
Parental controls can prevent these sneaky or accidental purchases by managing permissions for in-app sales and subscriptions.
This will undoubtedly save a fortune in the long run.
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Privacy Protection
Whatever age we are, online privacy will always be crucial.
Installing the right tools and restrictions helps protect children’s personal information from being shared online.
Educational materials can help with learning how to spot malicious sites or spam messages.
With a bit of teaching, some examples, and adequate online security, children will soon learn how to navigate the internet safely without compromising their personal data.
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Honest Conversations
By setting internet controls, you likely find that this leads to more honest and open conversations that take place.
Understanding more about the purpose of these tools will broaden your children’s minds too.
In fact, according to Internet Matters, 65% of children who said their parents have set up parental controls have had chats about internet safety in over the last month.
This is in stark contrast to 26% of children who say their parents have no internet rules in place.
Key Features of Parental Controls
- Website Blocking: Restricts access to harmful or distracting websites.
- App Management: Controls which apps can be downloaded or used.
- Time Limits: Sets restrictions on how long devices can be used.
- Activity Monitoring: Tracks online activities and app usage.
- Content Filtering: Automatically filters out inappropriate content.
Popular Tools and Tips to Try Out
- Software Solutions: Tools like Norton Family, Qustodio, and Net Nanny offer comprehensive parental control features.
- Built-In Controls: Apple Screen Time, Google Family Link, and Microsoft Family Safety provide built-in solutions that are easy to use and integrate seamlessly with their respective platforms.
- Router Controls: Many modern routers come with built-in parental control features, allowing parents to manage internet access at the network level. This is something you should speak to your broadband supplier about.
Tips for Effective Use of Parental Controls
- Communicate: Have open conversations with your children about why you are using parental controls. Explain the importance of online safety and the potential risks.
- Stay Updated: Technology and online threats are constantly evolving. Regularly update your safety software and settings to stay ahead of new challenges.
- Review Usage: Periodically review and adjust settings based on your child’s age and maturity. As children grow, their needs and the level of control required will change.
How Can Your Broadband Supplier Help?
Luckily, your supplier can offer a few benefits and restrictions to help make parental controls easier.
A broadband supplier can help with parental controls by providing built-in filtering features, time management tools, and monitoring services.
They offer customisable settings to block inappropriate content, set usage limits, and provide insights into internet activity.
Additionally, they offer support and educational resources to help parents ensure a safe online environment for their children.
Find a New Internet Plan Today
Parental controls are an essential tool for navigating the digital age with children.
By utilising these controls, parents can create a safer, more balanced, and age-appropriate online experience for their kids.
Remember, the goal is not to restrict but to guide children in their digital journey, ensuring they are safe and responsible online.
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