Cellphones are a staple in kids’ lives. So, how can we keep children safe from online dangers?

It’s the world we live in – almost everyone has a mobile device, children included. After all, it’s a necessity, right? We use our cellphones to connect with others, pay accounts, browse social media, and manage our daily lives. Let’s understand how we can keep our children safe and ensure they use cellphones responsibly.

Quick Read:

• You can choose not to enable Internet access on your child’s phone.
• Teach your child to take responsibility for their phone.
• Use this opportunity to show children how to save money and budget for airtime and data costs.

Cellphones have their perks + pitfalls

The upside of having mobile phone access is that your child can quickly contact you in case of an emergency. Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, you can usually rest a little easier if your child has a phone and is away from home, at school or with friends.

Unfortunately, the bad news is that cellphones just as easily give your children access to the Internet, social media and messaging apps. These can be wonderful platforms for learning and social connection, but they can expose them to cyberbullying, online predators and inappropriate or adult content.

Excessive screen time is linked to sleep disturbances and reduced physical activity among African children, similar to global trends.
– Study by the University of Ibadan (2023)

• Cyberbullying is a serious issue, and it can occur through text messages, social media, or other digital platforms. Make sure your child knows how to report any bullying and encourage them to come to you if they feel uncomfortable or threatened online. There are countless cases where children, globally, are victims of cyberbullying and it has led to stress, anxiety, and other potentially fatal consequences.
• Keep an eye on the apps and websites your child uses. Many services offer parental controls and guides to help you guide their online presence. You may also want to add their contacts to your phone to keep track of their online activities.
• Check out features that can help keep your child safe, like location tracking and emergency alerts. That said, your child doesn’t need the most sophisticated phone on the market, especially if they’re on the younger side. Shop around for phones that are designed for younger kids with only the essential functions and good safety features.
• Having a cellphone is a big responsibility, so help your child understand how to protect their phone. Teach them not to leave their phone lying around at school or elsewhere.

Help at hand

If your child’s phone uses a pay-as-you-go plan, you can teach them about saving by involving them in managing the costs. For example, you might have them contribute a slice of their allowance for phone airtime or data. It’s a smart opportunity to help children learn about budgeting and the value of money.

Part of being responsible for their cellphone includes being responsible about screen time. The cellphone should be a nice-to-have, not something they become addicted to.

Don’t forget to write down the phone’s serial number and other important details in case the cellphone gets lost or stolen. And this is a non-negotiable: be absolutely strict in ensuring your child never gives out their personal information (name, address, family details) to anyone online! 

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