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Child tech safety is a pretty big concern these days. With so many gadgets in a modern home, even child tablets, there is always the chance that little fingers will get into all kinds of mischief! So, from being aware of small parts to battery safety, here are some vital safety tips.
Device Protection Accessories
Thrown console controllers, toddler feet smashing tablet screens and everyone’s favourite, the toilet phone drop! The modern devices we use aren’t as robust as they should be, and even the slightest knock can kill some of them beyond repair. Of course, most people have called local cracked screen repair services more times than they would like. Accessory protectors like rubber cases protect devices but also ensure glass and broken plastic don’t injure the kids.
Beware of Small Parts
We can all remember growing up seeing choking hazard labels on our favourite toys but never giving them a second thought! Yet even today, as most people are more safety aware than ever, modern technology can still pose a hazard. Smartphones alone have small parts that can be pulled off and placed in a curious toddler’s mouth! Ensure any gadgets you give a child are safe and that small parts have been secured by being removed, sealed or covered with accessories.
Addressing Online Child Tech Safety
A survey by Internet Matters found that 71% of people under the age of 13 in the UK have been exposed to harmful online content. There are many ways to keep your family safe online, but here are three top tips for engaging with the web in a safe way that you can begin right away:
- Use built-in parental controls to block and monitor content that is not suitable for kids.
- Establish safe screen time limits between online apps and offline activities.
- Teach children about safe online interactions, boundaries and online cyberbullying.
Remove Batteries when Possible
Batteries can bring toys, games and gadgets to life, and keep the kids entertained for hours. But for all the joy batteries can bring, they are also super dangerous. AAA, AA and button batteries pose a severe health hazard for anyone,not just children. If swallowed, they can be deadly as acid leaks into the stomach. So make sure these are secured or removed entirely. Of course, smartphone batteries can also be removed by little fingers, so ensure they are covered up!
Stay Super-Cautious and Supervise
Like most health and safety concerns, child safety with gadgets mostly comes down to common sense. If something looks dangerous, such as a loose battery cover, then give the kids something else until it can be secured. It also helps to read safety and gadget age advice for each gadget you intend to provide your child with. Of course, children should also be supervised at all times when interacting with anything that can be a hazard to their health in any way.
Summary
Using device protection accessories, such as rubber cases, helps with child tech safety and protects the kid as much as the gadgets. However, it also helps to educate yourself about online safety, too. You can also reduce the chance of an accident by supervising the children.
