Keeping Kids Safe: Securing Your Child’s First Phone or Tablet This Christmas
Tips to set up your child’s first mobile phone for a safer experience
Christmas morning excites children, especially when they unwrap a shiny new phone. For many parents, this moment is bittersweet—you want your child to enjoy their new device, but you also worry about their safety online. Phones open a world of opportunities, but they also come with risks. Fortunately, you can take practical steps to secure your child’s phone while teaching them responsible digital habits.
(We also have conversation starter rules you can use when discussing online safety with your children. You can find it here.)
Here are the first steps every parent should take to secure their child’s phone and ensure peace of mind:
1. Set Up Strong Parental Controls
Why? Parental controls help you manage what your child can access on their device, including apps, websites, and content. Without these controls, your child might stumble across inappropriate material, such as violent games, explicit videos, or harmful online communities.
How? Use the phone’s built-in parental control features:
- iPhone or iPad: Click here for detailed instructions from Apple.
- Android: Use Google Family Link to set screen time limits, restrict app downloads, and filter web content. Click here for detailed instructions from Google.
These tools let you block adult content, set age-appropriate restrictions, and monitor app usage.
2. Enable Safe Browsing and Search Filters
Why? Search engines can accidentally lead children to harmful websites. Enabling safe search settings can reduce the risk of exposure to adult content, phishing scams, or misinformation.
How?
- On Google, activate SafeSearch by visiting Settings > Search Settings and toggling on SafeSearch.
- Consider installing child-safe browsers like “Kiddle” or “Qustodio.”
These tools add a layer of protection, ensuring your child’s browsing experience is safer.
3. Install a Reliable Security App
Why? Children may unknowingly download malware-infected apps or click on phishing links. A security app can block malicious software and alert you to suspicious activity.
How? Choose a trusted antivirus app like Norton Family, which offers options from R399.00 per year, Bitdefender, or Avast Mobile Security, which offers free and paid options. There are many others.
These apps can:
- Scan for harmful files
- Block unsafe websites
- Provide additional parental control features
4. Restrict App Downloads
Why? The app store is filled with applications that might not be suitable for children. From social media platforms with questionable content to games with hidden in-app purchases, it’s easy for kids to end up in trouble.
How?
- Enable “Ask to Buy” on iPhones or “Approval Required” on Android devices to prevent your child from downloading apps without your permission.
- Research apps before approving them and discuss why some apps are off-limits.
5. Set Up Screen Time Limits
Why? Excessive screen time can negatively affect children’s mental health, sleep patterns, and academic performance. Without boundaries, kids might spend hours glued to their screens.
How?
- Use the phone’s screen time management tools to set daily limits for specific apps or overall device usage.
- Create a “tech-free” time schedule, such as no phone use during meals or an hour before bedtime.
- You can use the Google Family Link app to manage your child’s screen time for Android devices.
- You can also use the Google Family Link app to manage your child’s screen time for Apple Devices such as the iPhone or iPad.
6. Teach Privacy Basics
Why? Children might unknowingly share personal information online, putting them at risk of cyberbullying, identity theft, or contact with strangers.
How?
- Go through the phone’s privacy settings together. Ensure location sharing is turned off for apps that don’t require it.
- Explain the dangers of oversharing on social media and why they should keep personal details—like their full name, address, or school—private.
7. Activate Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Why? Weak passwords can make it easy for hackers to access your child’s accounts. Two-factor authentication (2FA) is like having two locks on a door instead of one to keep your online accounts extra safe. First, you use your password (the first lock), and then you need a second step, like a code sent to your phone, a fingerprint, or a unique app (the second lock). This way, even if someone guesses or steals your password, they can’t get in without the second step, making it much harder for hackers to break in. Think of it as an extra layer of security that protects your digital treasures!
How?
- Enable 2FA on accounts like Google, Apple ID, and social media platforms. This often involves receiving a code via text or email to verify the login.
- Use a password manager to create strong, unique passwords for each account.
8. Have a Conversation About Online Safety
Why? Technology alone cannot replace education. Children must understand the risks and learn how to navigate the digital world responsibly.
How?
- Discuss common online dangers, such as cyberbullying, online predators, and scams.
- Role-play scenarios: What should they do if they receive a suspicious message or see inappropriate content?
- Encourage open communication. Let your child know they can come to you with any concerns, no matter how small.
9. Monitor and Adjust as Needed
Why? As children grow, their needs and behaviours change. Regularly reviewing and updating settings ensures their phone usage remains appropriate and secure.
How?
- Periodically check screen time reports to see which apps they use most.
- Revisit privacy and content restrictions to ensure they’re still relevant.
- Stay informed about new online threats and security tools.
Final Thoughts
Giving your child a phone is a significant step in their journey towards independence, but it also comes with responsibilities. By taking these practical steps, you can create a safer digital environment for your child while fostering healthy habits and open communication. Remember, a secure phone isn’t just about technology; it’s about building trust and equipping your child with the skills they need to navigate the online world responsibly.
Start this Christmas by giving a phone and the gift of safety and wisdom. You’ll thank yourself later—and so will your child.