7 Common Mistakes Your Kids Make When Going Online

7 Common Mistakes Your Kids Make When Going Online

If you have older children, you’re probably facing the same challenge as me – you want them to safely explore and embrace technology to expand their knowledge. However, the internet can be overwhelming and intimidating, leaving you unsure of how to protect them online. Keep reading to discover the kids’ typical mistakes made while navigating the web.

1) Sharing Too Much Information

Sometimes, children may unintentionally share more information online than necessary, often claiming it’s not their fault. This usually happens when they neglect their responsibilities or face challenges, and they resort to sharing everything online instead. Instead of acknowledging their mistake, they feel like the victim. If your child frequently shares an excessive amount of personal information, they are ultimately harming themselves.

So how can you address this issue? Start by having an open conversation to convey your concerns effectively. Explain why it’s crucial not to share personal information with strangers online. It’s also important to establish clear internet rules regarding when and for how long your child can go online, as well as guidelines on the type of content they can share. Stay calm, actively listen, and reassure your child that you are there to help. Together, you can discuss and determine appropriate actions to address this behaviour.

2) Use Unsecured Networks

If online safety and data privacy are important to you, you and your child should only use secure online methods. The first option is to use only sites with an SSL certificate. The second way is to use a VPN Mac app with a strong data encryption feature. One of the flagships of the VeePN market it has 256-bit encryption, as well as other data protection technologies. In this case, all connections will be secure, you will not be limited in your choice of sites, and you will even be able to safely use public Wi-Fi networks.

3) Never Logging Off

When children first start using the internet, they enter a whole new world. Despite setting restrictions, they can still access a wealth of unfamiliar information. Even if they spend all their time watching Minecraft videos, they feel like they’re engaging in something truly novel, which is a positive feeling.

However, this positivity fades when children become captivated by screens, refusing to let go. While it’s important for your children to have access to the internet and screen time, it shouldn’t consume their entire day. Set limits on their screen time and teach them the significance of time management, outdoor activities, and face-to-face communication.

4) Access to Adult Content

During the stage of individualization and separation from parents, kids, and teenagers often make the significant mistake of watching pornography. Although it is a natural part of their developmental phase, many kids lie about their actions, potentially getting themselves into trouble. Some kids watch pornography sneakily and refuse to admit it to their parents, often blaming someone else.

To address this issue, it is important not to react immediately. Instead, communicate to your child that such behaviour is inappropriate and that you will discuss it with them in a non-threatening manner. Use direct and honest language when discussing pornography with your child, and avoid using euphemisms.

5) Wrong Question Statement

Many children often make a common mistake when they venture online, whether it’s their first or hundredth time – they become too scared to ask questions. The internet, technology, and social media can occasionally be intimidating and unpredictable.

Promote transparency with your children and encourage them to reciprocate, so that if they have any questions or concerns, you can offer assistance. You might need to address queries about various online encounters, such as:

• Downloaded viruses
• Pop-up advertisements
• Bewildering videos
• Unwanted messages
• Online harassment
• Adult content

Any of these situations can bewilder your child, and it is crucial to instill in them the understanding that you are the person to provide guidance when they come across these issues.

6) Strong Feeling of Trust

Ensure your child learns to verify information sources before sharing them! Easily fact-check online by Googling the article’s title. Remind kids to be cautious when browsing the web and not to trust strangers. Train children to differentiate between true and false information online. Explore the internet with your child to learn how to assess the reliability of information sources.

7) Friendship with Strangers

Children often make the mistake of accepting friend requests from strangers, which can lead to various troubles. It is crucial to establish clear rules that prohibit befriending strangers online. Engage in conversations with your children to identify any strangers and handle the situation effectively.

Conclusion

You can support and educate your children on using the internet responsibly to avoid potential pitfalls. As caring parents, you want to strike a balance between granting them freedom and shielding them from potential consequences. Establish clear expectations and encourage open communication, ensuring they feel comfortable discussing any online concerns with you.

Also read:

• Gaming: Keeping your child safe online

Guest Article.