How to Keep Your Kids Safe Online

A practical guide for parents in the digital age

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Make Social Media Accounts Private

Social platforms often default to public profiles, which can expose your child to strangers.

• Children under 13 should not have social media accounts.

• Set profiles to private on apps like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok.

• Limit who can contact or follow your child.

• Only accept friend requests from real-life connections.

• Some privacy setting links:

  • Facebook

  • Instagram

  • Snapchat

  • WhatsApp

Note: Even with privacy settings, stories and images can be saved or screenshotted by others.

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Make YouTube Safer for Kids

YouTube is popular with kids but not always safe.

• Use YouTube Kids for children under 13.

• For older children, turn on Restricted Mode:

  • Go to profile icon > Scroll to bottom > Toggle “Restricted Mode” on

• Set daily time limits using parental controls.

• Watch content with them when possible.

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Install Anti-Virus Software on All Devices

Even kids can download malware accidentally.

• Use antivirus tools to protect personal data and block harmful websites.

• Free options:

  • Avast

  • Avira

  • BitDefender Free

• Consider upgrading to a paid version like Kaspersky, which offers full protection.

• Use a VPN for added security and location masking.

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Use Child-Safe Browsers and Search Engines

Standard browsers may expose kids to unsafe content.

• Install kid-safe browsers like:

  • Zoodles: Free for Mac, Windows, Android. Premium costs $8/month.

  • Maxthon: Free and available on iOS only.

• Activate Google SafeSearch in Chrome to block adult content:

  • Google Safe Search Instructions

• Create supervised Chrome profiles:

  • More Info

• Other child-friendly search engines:

  • Safe Search Kids

  • Kiddle

  • Kidtopia

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Create Separate Computer Accounts for Kids

Helps manage what children can access and protect adult content.

• Set up separate user accounts for kids with their own desktop and apps.

• On Mac, enable parental controls:

  • How to Set Up

• Manage time limits, website access, and app usage.

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Set Up Restricted Smartphone Accounts

Children using phones should have limited access.

• On Android:

  • Use Google Family Link to:

    • Monitor app use and downloads

    • Block or approve new apps

    • Set screen time

    • Lock the device remotely

    • Track location

  • Set up Family Link

• On iPhone/iPad:

  • Use Screen Time Restrictions:

    • Settings > General > Restrictions > Enable and set a passcode

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Use Parental Controls on Gaming Consoles

Gaming consoles are connected to the internet and often include chat features.

• Limit age-inappropriate games and web browsing.

• Restrict in-game purchases.

• Learn the safety features of your child’s specific console and enable parental settings.

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Install Parental Control Apps

Apps can help manage and monitor screen time, content, and activity.

• Features to look for:

  • Website and app blocking

  • Location tracking

  • Monitoring messages, photos, and videos

  • Purchase and app approval

• Trusted options include:

  • MMGuardian

  • WebSafety

  • Net Nanny

  • TeenSafe

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Use Strong Passwords and Change Them Often

Protect accounts with strong, hard-to-guess passwords.

• Use a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters.

• Avoid using names, birth dates, or common phrases.

• Example: “Hamburger” becomes H@M8urg3R

• Change passwords regularly and store them safely.

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Cover Device Cameras

Webcams can be hacked.

• Use a post-it note, slider cover, or webcam blocker.

• Teach kids never to accept video calls or open links from strangers.

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Stay Engaged: Talk and Teach

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Talk Regularly About Online Safety

Regular conversations help kids feel safe and supported.

• Ask what they’re doing online and how they feel about it.

• Stay updated on online trends.

• Join communities like the eParenting Group to stay informed.

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Use the Same Apps They Use

Being on the same platforms helps you understand the risks.

• Download the same apps your child uses.

• Observe the kind of content they engage with.

• Follow or connect with them on those platforms if appropriate.

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Set Family Internet Rules

Clear rules help create safe boundaries.

• Use a family media contract to set expectations.

• Include rules like:

  • Screen time limits

  • No phones during meals

  • No downloading apps without permission

• Involve your child in creating the agreement.

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Educate About Sexting

Teens may not understand the risks of sharing explicit content.

• Sexting is illegal for minors and carries lifelong consequences.

• One in five kids aged 10–15 are involved in sexting.

• Make it clear that once an image is sent, it can never be taken back.

• Delay giving a smartphone if you’re not ready for this conversation.

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Discuss Cyberbullying and Mental Health

Cyberbullying can severely affect children’s well-being.

• Explain the harmful impact of online cruelty.

• Encourage your child to speak up and support others.

• Talk about suicide and how to help friends who might be struggling.

• Let them know “joking” about self-harm isn’t acceptable.

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Warn About Online Predators

Predators often pretend to be kids and gain trust.

• Teach your child not to share personal info or images.

• Show them how online grooming works.

• Know who your child is connected to online.

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Teach About Digital Footprints

Everything online leaves a trace.

• Help your child understand how their online behavior affects their reputation.

• Remind them that schools and future employers may check their digital presence.

• Encourage positive online interactions and thoughtful posting.

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Lead by Example

Children model your behavior more than your words.

• Don’t use your phone during meals or while driving.

• Be cautious about what you post online.

• Avoid oversharing personal family details.