This guide provides essential insights into popular games, apps, and social media platforms, along with safety tips for keeping kids safe online.
Part 1: Gaming
Fortnite: Battle Royale
- Modes: Solo, Duo, Squad (teams of 4).
- Risks: Online chat can expose kids to bullying or inappropriate content.
- Safety Tips:
- Disable voice chat (Settings Audio Turn off Voice Chat).
- Monitor screen time and use parental controls.
- Ensure kids understand appropriate conduct.
- Did You Know? Fortnite generated $2.5 billion in 2018 through in-game purchases.
Discord
- Purpose: A platform for text, voice, and video chat for gamers.
- Risks: Inappropriate discussions, potential for bullying or harassment.
- Safety Tips:
- Enable Explicit Content Filter (Settings Privacy & Safety "Keep Me Safe").
- Block unwanted messages and friend requests.
- Teach kids not to share personal information with strangers.
General Gaming Tips
- Stay informed about games your child plays (e.g., check parental guides).
- Play games with them to monitor the content.
- Discuss the risks of talking to strangers online.
Part 2: Social Media
Snapchat
- Features: Disappearing snaps, streaks, stories, Snap Map (shows user locations).
- Risks: Sharing login info, inappropriate content, stranger contact.
- Safety Tips:
- Disable Snap Map (Settings Turn off location services).
- Limit interaction to friends only (Settings Privacy My Friends).
- Monitor activity for inappropriate content.
TikTok
- Purpose: Share and view short, creative videos.
- Risks: Exposure to bullying, explicit lyrics, inappropriate comments.
- Safety Tips:
- Enable a Private Account (Profile Privacy Toggle Private Account).
- Control comments and messages by setting them to "Friends Only."
- Review content your child uploads.
Instagram
- Features: Posts, Stories, DMs, Explore (customized content feed).
- Risks: Stranger messages, inappropriate content in Explore.
- Safety Tips:
- Private Account: (Settings Privacy Account Privacy Private).
- Block/report inappropriate users.
- Filter comments to hide offensive ones (Settings Privacy Comments).
YouTube and YouTube Kids
- Risks: Inappropriate videos/comments, privacy issues with uploading content.
- Safety Tips:
- Use YouTube Kids for younger children.
- Make uploaded videos private or unlisted.
- Supervise what they watch and discuss dangers of sharing personal info.
Part 3: Monitoring Apps
Google FamilyLink
- Manage screen time, approve apps, and track your child's location.
- Set app usage limits and lock devices remotely.
Bark
- Monitors text, email, social media, and YouTube for signs of bullying, predators, or risky behavior.
- Sends alerts to parents about potential issues.
General Online Safety Tips
- Open Communication: Encourage kids to talk to you about online experiences.
- Monitor Activity: Check settings, usage, and any changes in behavior.
- Education: Teach about the dangers of sharing personal info.
- Use Parental Controls: Enable privacy and filtering settings on all apps.
Additional Resources
Summing it up
With tools like privacy settings, parental controls, and open dialogue, you can help your child navigate the online world safely and confidently.