There are a lot of benefits to wireless connectivity for kids today, whether for education, entertainment, connection with friends, or in case of an emergency. Access to the internet offers incredible opportunities to learn and grow, but like most things, the internet comes with risks when not used responsibly, such as exposure to harmful content, oversharing personal information, and cyberbullying.
Policymakers at all levels of government are paying closer attention to child online safety. While these efforts are important, the best way to protect youth from the risks of the internet starts with parents, grandparents, educators, and communities working together to have important conversations about online activity.
Tips for Parents and Guardians
Talk about online safety: Teaching kids safe online habits begins with conversations about responsible wireless use. Talking openly about the dos and don’ts of spending time online helps children understand the importance of protecting personal information, spotting scams, and asking for help when something feels wrong. These conversations build a foundation of trust, making it more likely that they will come to you when questions arise. To get started, resources like Mobile Parent are at your fingertips, and provide useful guidance to help start the conversation about online safety.
Use Built-In Device Settings: Parents and grandparents don’t have to navigate online safety alone. Most device manufacturers and wireless carriers provide tools and resources that make setting boundaries easier through features like screen time limits, app blocking, content filters, and parental controls.
Apple provides guides for setting restrictions across devices, and Google’s Family tools make it simple to manage screen time and approve app downloads. Wireless carriers, including AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and UScellular all provide similar tools to limit screen time and accessible content, with parental controls that help set boundaries.
Additionally, the FCC provides resources outlining how to block unwanted content and encourage safe media use, while the FTC offers information to help parents and grandparents understand how kids’ data is collected and what protections exist. Together, these resources provide clear, actionable ways to reinforce safe and healthy digital habits.
Take Steps to Recognize and Prevent Cyberbullying: Cyberbullying remains one of the most common risks for kids online, with studies showing that up to 40% of youth experience it at some point. It can appear in many forms, from hurtful comments to harassment via text messages and apps. To get ahead of potential warning signs like sudden changes in behavior, withdrawing from activities, or noticeable shifts in mood it’s important to stay attentive and engaged in how young ones use their wireless devices.
Community Involvement Matters
Online safety is a shared effort. Educators and community groups can help reinforce digital literacy and create supportive spaces for families. In addition, thanks to wireless, there are several reliable ways for parents to stay connected with their kids, whether they’re near or far. This can be as simple as a quick phone call and text, to setting the family up with kid-friendly smartwatches that offer live location tracking. The world is more connected than ever, and while wireless technology has brought countless benefits, it’s important to start conversations about online safety early on.
At ACTwireless, we are here to be a resource for families navigating the digitally connected world. Together, we can make sure the internet remains a safe place for kids to learn, connect, and grow.
