Nothing is worse in the preteen/teen years than the worry that comes with a tech device. It’s a tough balance between giving your teen privacy and freedom while ensuring they stay safe from the potential dangers on the Internet.
Many parents feel it’s important to monitor or limit their child’s internet behavior — from browsing and video games to social media and app usage — until they reach a certain level of maturity or trustworthiness.
When it comes to safety and monitoring your tween or teen’s cell phone, we suggest becoming more of a mentor than a monitor. It’s tough because many young people are savvy at breaking through the restrictions we may put on their tech usage. Luckily, there has emerged new safety resources and guidelines to keep our kids safe while still allowing them the full benefits of technology.