Home Filtering
A home internet filter does not take away the need to be with your child when having screen time. Students should always have their screen in a position (like the living area) where it can be viewed by a supervising adult. This also reinforces the notion that anything they do online is visible and that they are leaving a digital footprint.
Here are some different approaches for managing web access at home:
‘As a parent I don’t plan to use any as they will work out how to get around it anyway. My child and I spend a fair bit of time together using tech, we play, talk, explore and he’s only ever on it when my partner and I are in the room (nearby). Not because we don’t trust him but so we are there to help with anything he doesn’t understand. We have open and frank conversations with him about the world and the Internet is just a reflection of that’ -Andrew Williamson past parent and ICT educational expert
Useful Programs/Filters:
With any filter you use it is important to understand what its limitations are, and make it work for you. In a lot of cases the parent will need to set the parameters of it is and isn’t allowed.
This site works on hand held devices and is free:
http://www1.k9webprotection.com/
Net Nanny / Net Nanny Social
http://internet-filter-review.toptenreviews.com/
A filter doesn’t remove the need for interaction/supervision with your child. It can only do so much. The best way to educate and protect your child, is to have open conversations about their online behaviour and make clear what your expectations are.
Here is another interesting article that discusses the pros and cons of monitoring your child’s device using apps:
http://www.smh.com.au/digital-life/social-radar/should-you-stalk-your-childs-smartphone-20160224-gn2azn.html
At the end of the day, the best approach is an open one, where children feel they can talk about their experiences online and take the moral code and values they have in everyday life, into an online setting.
Managing your child’s screen time at home can be a difficult task. Here are some suggested sites that may be helpful.
Active vs Passive Screen Time
http://www.ledevoir.com/documents/pdf/screen_time.pdf
Kids who Code
http://media.theaustralian.com.au/kids-who-code/index.html
Managing Children’s Use of the Internet and Technology
http://www.dystalk.com/talks/81-managing-childrens-use-of-the-internet-and-technology-ict
Give kids a list of things to do before earning screen time
Tips for managing screen time
Internet Safety for Primary Students
http://www.cybersafetysolutions.com.au/fact-internet-safety-tips-kids.shtml