In Part 1 of this article, we explored the basics of keeping children safe online by setting boundaries on device usage, monitoring the applications they use, teaching our kids online safety, encouraging them to use strong passwords on all their accounts, and warning them about potential dangers of bad actors. However, the digital world is rapidly developing, and as children mature, they require more than just rules. They need guidance that enables them to make appropriate decisions for themselves. That is where Part 2 comes in, which offers strategies that parents or guardians may use to ensure not just their children’s safety but also guarantee that they use the internet responsibly.
Enable parental controls
Parents are not always aware that tools for protecting children online are already available. Nowadays, telecommunication networks and internet service providers in the country have parental control tools that let you filter inappropriate content, block dangerous websites, and even place time limitations on screen time. Furthermore, almost all computers, tablets, and cellphones have parental control features built in, and search engines like Google and YouTube offer “Safe Search” modes that help filter what kids can see. The most crucial thing is to take the time to activate and use these tools, not merely to be aware that they exist. Parents should take time to speak with the customer support of their respective telecommunication service provider and internet service providers to enquire about the parental controls service they offer.
Keep tech where you can see it
A child using a phone behind closed doors is more difficult to supervise. Placing laptops, iPads, tablets, smartphones, and even game consoles in common areas such as the living room fosters natural responsibility. It also makes it easier for parents to spot red flags, such as sudden screen minimization when someone walks in or nervousness when you come close to the device they are using. These little signs frequently indicate that something is not right, yet they are only noticeable when devices are placed in visible spots in the house. Placing devices where everyone can see them is not about invading their privacy; it is about fostering a culture of responsibility and limiting the likelihood of hidden risks.
Discuss online etiquette
I once had a young child, possibly under the age of 8 years old, come to me talking about a video on “how to get pink lips” that she had watched on YouTube. To this beautiful kid, it was just a fun video, but it demonstrated how quickly young people adopt internet trends without questioning whether they are safe or real. This is why parents must intervene to educate their children not to believe everything they see, not to use offensive language in conversations, and not to post inappropriate photographs. Explain that each action they perform on the internet creates a digital trail that can follow them for years.
Encourage responsible sharing
Oversharing is one of the most serious problems that young people face nowadays. Posting school uniforms, home addresses, or details about where they are going makes it easy for predators to target them. Even what appears to be entertaining, such as dance challenge videos shot in bedrooms or family living rooms, birthday shoutouts revealing their complete age and date of birth might expose more than they realise. Parents and guardians must educate their children about the difference between public and private information. Make it a habit to ask: “Would I be comfortable if the whole world saw this?” before sharing. This behavior will safeguard your children both now and as they grow older.
Guide them to build a positive digital presence
Instead of focusing only on what not to do on the internet, show your children how the internet may be used to reflect their values and future aspirations. Encourage and guide your children to follow educational pages and use their profiles to showcase their skills, such as writing, drawing, or coding. When they are properly guided, the internet becomes more than just entertainment; it becomes a platform for development and growth.
Stay involved and maintain constant communication
Technology changes quickly. Today’s popular app may be gone tomorrow, replaced by something new. The best defense is ongoing conversation. Ask your children what apps they use, who they follow, and what trends they are curious about. By showing interest without judgment, you make it easier for them to come to you when they face challenges. Remember, silence creates vulnerability, but open dialogue builds trust.
Finally, protecting children online is not about fear, but about empowering them to view websites and watch the right content that will help their growth and development. The internet is not going away; it will only grow more important in our children’s lives. The choice is whether we let them fall blindly or provide them with the skills and awareness they need to succeed. As parents, our responsibility is clear: regulations should be combined with guidance, controls with conversation, and, most importantly, balance safety with trust. That is how we prepare these smart kids to make the best use of the internet.
Adesola is a cybersecurity expert. He can be reached through Email: yemiadesola@gmail.com
