App Update For Parents

St Anthony's prioritises online safety for its students and we work to keep parents informed about current apps and online safety issues. In the digital age, it's crucial to take proactive measures to protect children while they navigate the online world. Here are some tips and steps that parents can consider to ensure a safer online environment for their children:

Educate Yourself: Stay informed about popular apps and websites that children use. Understand their features, potential risks, and the age requirements set by the platforms themselves.

Enable Parental Controls: Most devices and platforms offer built-in parental controls. These controls allow parents to set restrictions on content, app downloads, and screen time. Familiarise yourself with the parental control options available on your child's devices and make use of them.

Set Age-Appropriate Restrictions: Ensure that your child only accesses apps and content suitable for their age. Many apps have age ratings, and it's essential to follow these guidelines.

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Talk About Online Safety: Have open and honest conversations with your child about the potential dangers they may encounter online. Teach them about privacy, cyberbullying, and the importance of not sharing personal information with strangers.

Supervise Online Activities: Younger children especially benefit from active supervision while using devices. Place computers and tablets in common areas of the house where you can easily monitor their online activities.

Stay Connected: Keep communication channels open with your child, so they feel comfortable talking to you about any online experiences that may make them uncomfortable or worried.

Model Responsible Tech Use: Children often learn from their parents' behaviour. Demonstrating responsible and mindful tech use can positively influence your child's habits.

Be Wary of In-App Purchases: Some apps offer in-app purchases, which can be problematic if not controlled. Set up password protection for purchases or disable them altogether for your child's device.

Use Safe Search Engines: Set safe search options on browsers to prevent your child from stumbling upon inappropriate content accidentally.

Regularly Review Apps: Periodically review the apps your child is using. Check if there have been any updates or changes that might impact safety features or privacy settings.

Report and Block: Teach your child how to report and block any users or content that are inappropriate or harmful.

Cybersecurity Awareness: As children grow older, educate them about online scams, phishing attempts, and the importance of strong passwords.

Remember, while parental controls and safety options are helpful tools, they are not foolproof. It's essential to combine them with open communication and parental involvement to create a safer online environment for your child.

Here is some additional information regard the BeReal app.