Electronic device connectivity it is always a matter of debate. Like many other issues, it has advantages and at the same time cons. In turn, children begin to use technology earlier and earlier. As we said this facilitates many tasks and serves as entertainment, but at the same time represents a risk to our children.
One of the proposed solutions is parental control systems. With them we avoid depriving minors of computers, tablets and phones. And at the same time maintain some control over its use.
In this post we will break down this tool, and thus be able to decide what is the best option to take care of our children from the risks coming from the Internet.
What is parental control and what is it for in computing today?
Can be interpreted as attention parents put on their children's activities. Some time ago or in your own childhood, this referred to the permits and vigilance that our tutors exercised in daily activities. However, today, this phrase is more often associated with software.
These programs allow the restriction of content and applications by the elders on their children's devices. In this way, it filters the sites that we do not want children to access (pornography, violent websites, etc.). Similarly, some companies use this tool to prevent employees from spending leisure time on the computer during business hours.
This type of software also allows, among other things, avoid the risk of sending or receiving messages from strangers and people who may harm them. This problem is defined as grooming, cyber bullying me sexting.
Control and limit the time they spend in front of the screen. Among the possibilities is to cut access times and establish a maximum in use. Some programs they also offer the option of a history of visited sites and applications. This is available to parents.
Types of parental controls What are all that exist?
From the Internet provider, to the screen in front of the children, the information passes through different types of devices and software. With this in mind, we will classify the applications depending on where you are staying:
- On entering the home. We refer to the router. It is the first device we have control of. Some models such as those from Belkin and Linksys incorporate the possibility of blocking sites. Also, most C.P. Allows you to add filters to the router. It is important to say that these addresses will not be available to any device connected to this network.
- On the device. It is the usual place where these surveillance helpers are installed. Within this category we can find free and paid programs, for different operating systems. They are the most versatile and offer the greatest configuration options.
- On mobile. Children want a phone earlier and earlier. As we said previously, it can be a great help to be connected with them when they are not close to us. Not to mention teenagers. However, it is important that there are limits to its use. So there are applications that will help us do it. They perform the same functions as computer software and are just as powerful. With the addition of being able to control calls and messages.
- The software within the software. We are talking about specific options within some programs, mainly antivirus. Many of these incorporate (some in paid versions) a real-time control service for social networks, navigation and usage time.
- In the browser. As the internet is the main source of danger and inappropriate content, the browser is the main defense barrier. Many of them contain settings that allow you to block sites and keywords. In addition to this, there are plug-ins that help link these filters to other parental control programs.
List of the best desktop and mobile parental control programs and applications
Now that we know What are the types of parental control systems that exist, it is necessary to know which are the most efficient:
Norton Family
One of the most popular softwares. It has a free version and a paid one. Among other functions, it offers real-time viewing of children on mobile. Also, provides the location of the device at any time.
NetNanny
Protects from sites not suitable for smartphones. Also can limit your usage time by the children. The app sends reports of search and browsing history from all paired devices.
Download Net Nanny MacOS
Qustodio
This software is highly recommended as it is compatible for many operating systems. iOS, Windows and Android. Like the previous options, it offers a more complete version by paying for the premium upgrade. A particular feature is that it has an option for educational institutions. Which allows control multiple PCs simultaneously.
Download Qustodio Windows
Download Qustodio MacOS
Secure Kids
Designed for phones and tablets. It has location via GPS, website filtering, blocking of unknown calls and access control to pages defined by the person in charge.
Microsoft Family Group
A completely free option offered by Microsoft to Windows users. To access this service you must access account.microsoft.com/family/ and create a family group.
This application configures the type of access to all linked devices. Among other options set permanence limits in front of the screen, blocks inappropriate sites and it is possible to pair a mobile with Android.
Tips to make technology safer for your young children
The well-being of children is really the number one priority of every parent. Only in the 21st century this field has shifted to technology and communications. That is why we have developed a list of tips to keep your children away from technological dangers:
Block adult websites
It is the first action you should take. Use any of the alternatives presented above and use it on the devices that children use. When we refer to adult sites, we are not just talking about pornography. There are violence, gore, potentially dangerous chat channels and others that you can enter by accident.
Restrict the use of inappropriate apps
Along with Internet sites, applications are an open door to the outside world. That's why app stores offer age category labels. In the case of Europe, the initials PEGI appear next to the minimum recommended age. Except for the label "PEGI OK" which means suitable for all audiences.
It is of great relevance that do not allow the installation of games and applications that are not labeled or that do not correspond to age. You can find it in the description of each app.
Control the consumption time
Long hours in front of the monitor can be detrimental to the health of children and adults. In the case of minors, the will deprive you of other more enriching activities. The use of technology must be managed within a reasonable time limit, also bearing in mind that children are practically born with a phone in hand.
Monitor them while using the devices
Who said that being in front of the screen should be an individual practice? Encourage your children to watch the content with you. Together they can share thoughts and experiences that relate to that moment. A good practice is play video games together, you can instill the correct sports values in it. By doing this, the child will make him more involved in his activities.
Do not allow them to have a PC in their rooms
Unlike adolescents, younger children do not need such a marked personal space. Neither is a computer in the room, especially considering that it is a device connected to the electrical network.
Acquire specialized devices
In case you have decided to buy a device, there are tablets for the little ones on the market. They contain shock protectors and most importantly, parental control software.
Create zero technology spaces
One of them may be the dining room, where everyday family gatherings are shared. Use it to strike up conversations and strengthen ties. These activities will foster bonds with and between your children.
A Smartphone is not a pacifier
Today's phones are designed to be so intuitive that even the smallest can use. For this reason, it is normal for children to want to have them all the time. Referring to the title, do not use mobile phones or tablets as the only way to calm your child. There are methods and activities that can help you reduce anxiety or boredom.
Talk to them
The most important of the tips, talk to your children and explain the hidden dangers on the Internet, as well as the reasons why you should protect them and monitor their actions. Let them know they can count with you if they have any questions or suspect an online activity.