Is It a Good Idea?

This is the one question that every parent cautiously asks when considering gift options. The main concern here is whether the child is ready for the risk and responsibility that come with owning and operating the devices. Mobile, tablets, and computers are some of the most common when it comes to online risk for your kids. Cyberbullying is at an all-time high. Virtual kidnapping and online predators are out there, so is it a good idea to give your child one of these for Christmas?

The answer is yes. With these guidelines and other resources, you will be able to assure you keep your kids safe online. However, it is very important to assess whether your child can handle the responsibility. This means not only taking care of the device, but also practicing moderation in using it. Below are more tips on how to ensure things turn out well when you choose this gift idea.

Should You Install GPS Tracking on Their Mobile Device?

One of the best ways to ensure that your child is protected from dangers of internet-enabled devices, and the world wide web, is by using mobile trackers as well as parental controls. These allow you to keep track of your child’s activity online to ensure that they cannot access harmful websites. These apps also protect the child from online predators who use these platforms to lure them. While it is important to protect your child, you should also consider their privacy. They may still be kids, and your responsibility, but this doesn’t mean that they don’t deserve a little space. You know the old saying in parenting: pick and choose your battles. However, if you think your child may be at risk of cyberbullying or engaging in some dangerous behavior, it is your right as a parent to put safety first and monitor them. This is something that many parents still do according to a recent technology survey, which shows 50% reporting that they still go through their kids’ texts in 2022. The reason is due to the rise of online predators and the dangers of online abuse. There are also a number of ways on how to read someone’s text messages without installing monitoring software. We suggest maintaining open communication with your children and teaching them about the dangers that lurk on the web.

Teaching Your Child Proper Use

There are numerous unspoken rules about phone use that a child should know about. So, if you are planning on getting your child one you need to get them educated. This includes things like when and where they can pick up calls, how to answer appropriately, politely, returning missed calls, texts, messages, emails and so on. You can teach them the importance of all of these aspects as well as implementing a mobile, tablet and computer contract with your child. Establish Rules and a Contract

Yes, it can be necessary. A mobile, tablet and computer use contract is one of the best ways to assure that your child understands the responsibility they are receiving. The contract can be modified to suit your specific requirements. It also makes it alot easier to hold them accountable should they use them inappropriately. If your children demonstrate the inability to control their computer usage, then it may be a good idea to get them smaller devices, like phones and tablets. This will help curtail any inappropriate behavior. It also makes it more difficult for them to keep connected to whatever is getting them hooked, including video games, the internet, messaging, and chats.

Don’t Give in To Their Demands

You should never allow your child to back you into a corner and pressure you into buying them something. It doesn’t matter what reason they give you. It should be entirely your decision and should be based on your assessment of their readiness for the responsibility. Be sure to consider when the right time is to give a mobile, tablet or computer to your children. There is such a thing as giving them one too early. They need to have the ability to comprehend their use.

Consider a Guarantee and Warranty

Going the electronic route for your kid’s Christmas gift will take a lot from your pocket. You, therefore, need to ensure that you are getting full value for your money. One way to determine this is by considering getting a guarantee or warranty policy. A longer warranty can be indicative of higher quality products. Guarantees also ensure that if you and your child are not pleased with the product you do not have to suffer with it and can return it for something else better suited for your child’s needs.

The Conclusion

It goes without saying that giving a child an electronic device bears a few risks. However, the numerous benefits more than make up for this pitfall, making it a Christmas gift idea that is worth considering. The important thing is to prepare your child and yourself for the upcoming responsibility, that way whether it is their very first phone or a new video game console, it will only serve to improve their lives and not turn them into digital slaves. Did you like and value article? If so, please Like our Facebook page and help support our cause of providing FREE technology related tips and hints. If you’re in need of any technology related work, such as IT, for your home or business, DM, email or call us today. We’re here to get IT done.