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Computer Safety During a Time of Online Learning


While we are all following the ‘Safer at Home’ protocols, there are more opportunities for children to be online than ever before. As parents try to pair working from home with being a homeschool teacher, it is common to turn to internet programs to reinforce old skills and teach new ones. But, as we all know, the internet can be just as much of a negative influence as it can be a helpful one. So how do we use this electronic wizard as a beneficial tool without risking our children being exposed to undesirable content?

  • You can use safe search engines such as Swiggle or Kids-search,

    and safe search settings can also be activated on Google and other search engines. However, you should use filtering and monitoring tools as a complement--not a replacement--for parental supervision. While these are helpful to weed out most issues, there’s nothing that can replace your constant presence while your child is online. Keep all devices in a public area. If you are working from home, have your child sit with you while using the internet. And remember, safe online behavior is also about good decision-making, so be sure to support their good choices online.
  • Encourage your kids to come to you if they encounter anything online that they know is inappropriate or that makes them feel uncomfortable or threatened. Stay calm and don't blame your child if they encounter something; otherwise, they might not turn to you in the future. Studies have shown that children often won’t go to parents when something bad happens online because they think mom or dad won’t understand, will take away their phone or computer, or will intervene but only make things worse. It’s hard to keep kids safe when you’re not part of their digital experiences.

  • Teach them not to interact with anyone on online that they don’t already know, not to purchase any programs or apps without your permission, and not to ever give out their or the family’s personal information. You can use airplane mode on your devices when your child is using them so they can’t make any unapproved purchases or interact with anyone online without your knowledge.

  • Create a list of acceptable websites that you have already previewed. Keep these in a place where your child can see it so he/she knows which sites can be visited without having to ask. Write and sign a personalized contract with your child that outlines rules for using the computer and mobile devices, including what they can download, what they can post, and consequences for inappropriate use.


While the internet can be a useful tool for home education, research, and gathering information on interests, parents must be contentious on how it is used with their children. Used wisely, the internet can help parents provide insightful learning experiences and imaginative adventures, all while providing a safe environment for their children.


Sources Cited:

“The Internet Safety 101 Informational Guide Age Based Guidelines”, Internetsafety101.org
“Cyber Chip Workbook”. Boy Scouts of America. Bsa.org
“Internet Safety for Kids: 17 Cyber Safety Experts Share Tips for Keeping Children Safe Online”. Gallagher, Frank. Safety.com
“Internet Safety Checklist for Young Children”. Internetmatters.org

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