Keep Kids Safe--Technology Tips: Smartphone Safety, UPDATED

Teens today (as well as adults!) spend a lot of time socializing online. A 2020 survey of 13-24 year olds indicated that the 5 most frequented social media sites are YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat and Twitter, in that order. Other popular sites include Reddit, TikTok, Google+, Pinterest, WhatsApp, Vine, and Tumblr. Parents should familiarize themselves with these sites/apps, learn how they work, and talk with their kids about what they are doing online.

Smartphone technology means that the internet is
literally at our fingertips! This is both a blessing and a challenge. When your kids are ready for a Smartphone, keep the following in mind:

-Use parental controls to limit access to inappropriate content
-Set the device so that app purchases require parental approval
-Make a contract with your child listing rules you expect him or her to follow
-Be aware that in-phone apps sometimes provide access to sites you’ve blocked. Consider having  children turn in their phones to you at a certain time each night.
-Know passwords and make it clear that you will be checking the phone periodically.
-Tell your kids that they will not be punished if they come to you and report that they received inappropriate content or messages—you will help them! 

For more information about child safety, please visit: www.catholicnh.org/safety