Simple Ways to Keep Kids Safer Online with The Cyber Safety Cop - Part 1

Aware And Prepared

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SUMMARY

In this podcast episode, the guest is Clayton Cranford, a retired law enforcement sergeant from the Orange County Sheriff's Department, who has expertise in internet safety for families.

He emphasizes the importance of addressing online safety for children. Clay also discusses the challenges parents face in managing their children's digital world, especially during breaks when kids may have more unsupervised screen time.

He stresses the need for open communication with children about online risks and the importance of establishing a trusting relationship. Clay also suggests tools like the Bark app to monitor and alert parents to potential issues on their child's device. Lastly, he covers using parental controls, which he says he walks through step by step in his book.

LESSONS LEARNED

Delay Device Introduction as long as possible before introducing smartphones and social media

Open Communication is Key to encourage kids to discuss their online experiences and mistakes without fear of judgment

Use Monitoring Tools like Bark to monitor a child's online activity and alert parents to issues

Limit Screen Time, especially during breaks, helps maintain a balance between online and offline activities

No Devices in Bedrooms while sleeping to minimize unsupervised online activities and potential risks

Educate About Risks such as cyberbullying and exposure to inappropriate content

Set Parental Controls on devices to filter and block inappropriate content

Choose Safe Apps - vet and approve each app before your child downloads it, like Snapchat.

Consider Alternative Devices for preteens, like smartwatches instead of phones

Address Impact of Pornography and it’s harm caused by early exposure to pornography and engage in open discussions about healthy relationships

Remind kids that their device is paid for by you and you own it!

RESOURCES

Clay’s website with MANY great practical resources to keep kids safer online is CyberSafetyCopy.com

He recommends Bark.us to monitor dangers on your child’s device

He authored the book "Parenting in the Digital World" and was recognized with the National Anti Bullying Award for his contributions

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You can find your podcast host, Mandi, on Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared
Her website is WomenAwareAndPrepared.com where you can contact her or sign up for her weekly Tuesday Tip emails (at the bottom of the website) to stay safer and feel more empowered. You’ll receive a downloadable list of Mandi’s favorite 10 things to do to stay safer.
Music by Andrea Hamilton Binley at HopefulPop.com.
The primary purpose of the Women Aware and Prepared Podcast is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute advice or services. Please use common sense for your own situation.