Every parent dreams of a bit of a break by having their child occupied. A tablet is a perfect device to achieve this, with the ability to be a learning tool and an entertainer.

But how can you control usage and keep your kids safe?

Why should I be worried?

Children do not have the judgement of an adult, and even then, many adults fall for and are exposed to stuff on the internet that we should not be. Device addiction is an issue and carries a possibility of children buying stuff or running up phone/internet charges unknowingly.

A tablet with a camera opens the possibility of photo or video communication which might be great for Grandma but not so good if a stranger is at the other end. Onboard GPS also allows the location to be found, being both positive and negative.

An innocent kids tablet can solve all your problems in one minute and cause you many more the next. 

Careful use of the device has been shown to improve numeracy and language and promote creativity in children. 

What are the different types of tablets available?

Child Friendly options are available today, that offer age-appropriate educational apps as well as support parental control.

Specifically for children, you can purchase a completely locked down tablet like Disney Tablets, to an Android tablet with Google Kids Space. Tablets designed especially for children also tend to be the most economical, so if the tablet is damaged, it will not end the world. 

How do I keep my kids safe on a tablet?

When a child first starts using a tablet, you should consider the following:

• Set up Parental controls from day one, and this includes the ability for you to monitor their online activity
• Age permitting, help your child set up a pin or password
• If headphones are used, it is a good idea to discuss which rooms are appropriate and at what times, for example, not at the dinner table
• Ensure all software updates have been installed and continue to be. This will ensure security patches are installed
• Only use secure Wi-Fi networks
• Disable the GPS location if it is not required
• If you permit your children to use social media, restrict their account to private, which stops unwanted contact. Social platforms like Facebook and Snapchat recommend a minimum age of 13 years
• Streaming services can have a content rating set to stop inappropriate content, for example, G versus M movie ratings
• Install Family Link app when you lend an Android tablet to a child. This is an easy to use tool allows you to understand how your child is spending time on their device, share location, manage privacy setting. 

Suppose your child is given a Disney tablet or equivalent locked down tablet, in that case, they can only access age-appropriate games, eBooks etc., from a specially created App store. Parents can control and view screen time with the confidence that no advertisements or in-app purchases will be presented.

For Android tablets, Google's Kid Space is designed for children under 13 years. It allows the child to have their own Google account controlled by adults via Family Link. In Google Kids Space, each child has a separate user space, so multiple children can use the same tablet. 

Your child can choose five tabs with different content: Home, Play, Read, Watch, and Make. Content includes apps and books from Google Play and videos from YouTube Kids. Children's education and media specialists review apps and books. Within Family link, you can set screen time limits, allow, or block apps and find your child's location.

HINTS

When introducing your child to a tablet, establish boundaries and rules with your kids and stick to them.

Screen protectors and cases will also help the devices last longer and handle a tantrum.

Laser Tablets offers a diverse range that includes completely locked down kid-friendly tablets based on their favorite Disney characters such as Frozen, Toy Story , etc. Laser Android tablets support Google Kids Space. 

SUMMARY – Child safety on tablets

It is a terrific way to entertain a child and aid their learning development. However, the connected world can be dangerous, and appropriate actions should be taken to protect both them and you.

A tablet designed for children can save time in setting appropriate restrictions and parental control. Not to mention collating age-appropriate content.