There are some children and teens who need very strict controls and others who can do just fine without them, based on conversations and adherence to household rules.
Whether and how to use filtering and monitoring tools is a parental decision that should be based on your understanding of what’s best for your child. There are several ways to get around filters, including using another computer, mobile phone, or tablet that’s not filtered.
Should I install internet filtering or monitoring software?įilters can usually prevent young children from accidentally stumbling on troubling or inappropriate material, but they are less effective at keeping older kids and teens from deliberately visiting blocked sites. Ask a child or teen to rethink what they’re about to send or post if it may be inappropriate or hurtful to others.Limit what a child can find using a search engine.Control the use and access of certain devices on your home network.Limit the ability to watch videos, movies or TV shows based on age ratings.Limit total screen time or screen time of specific apps or types of apps.
Some are software products or mobile apps that you buy or subscribe to. There are a variety of control tools and monitoring tools available to parents. What are parental controls and what do they do?