To mark this year’s Safer Internet Day, which is celebrated on February 9, 2016, we have defined six golden rules for using digital media safely. And collected some interesting facts about youth and media usage.
Easy access to information, connecting with people around the world and making the most of learning opportunities. These are just some of the benefits of digital media, which are increasingly also being used by children and young people. They are often not able to correctly assess the dangers and risks of the harmful content on the Internet, however. Parents, guardians and teachers are required to teach young people to use new media responsibly.
We picked the six “How To’s”:
1. Protect your private data on the web
Do not give out personal data such as your name, address, telephone number, photos etc. on the Internet. Wherever possible, activate the privacy settings.
2. Accompany your child as they enter the digital world
As a rule of thumb: the Internet and mobile phones should not be used by children under the age of 9, and only when accompanied by an adult.
3. Be a role model
During homework time or when eating, switch your phone to silent and put it aside. Don’t forget that you are a role model for your child.
4. Observe the age ratings for films, computer games and apps
The consumption of content that is not age appropriate can have harmful consequences. At fsk.de you will find everything you need to know about the age recommendations for media content and at gametest.ch and spielfalt.ch you will find recommended games.
5. Define rules for media use and consumption together
Set the rules for daily or weekly media use together with your child (TV, mobile phone, games etc.). Also agree on possible consequences if your child does not stick to the agreed times.
6. Activate parental controls
TV sets, modems and Mediaboxes offer various features for protecting children and young people from unsuitable content. In our brochure we have compiled a list of the most important questions about the parental controls.
On our website, you will find our free brochure (available only in German, French and Italian) with the tips listed. You will also find helpful links and additional information on the subject of protecting children and young people in the brochure.