Social media and online platforms are used by people all over the world with a wide range of different ages. As technology becomes more and more integrated into our lives, children and young people are using the internet and social media for all kinds of things, often from an early age.

Monitoring your child’s internet use is very important, but you shouldn’t necessarily stop them from setting up online accounts for social media platforms or websites for things like gaming. Instead, the best thing you can do is set up profiles with your child so that you feel confident that they’re staying safe.

In this article, we explain some of the risks that online profiles pose, and then share the best advice for avoiding these by setting up a safe profile for your child. We also cover how to talk to your child about online safety, which is an important conversation to have before you let them start using the internet.

The Risks of Online Profiles

There are plenty of positives to using the internet and it can be a fantastic place for children and young people to learn, play games, connect with friends and find communities or groups they feel a part of. However, there are a range of risks that come from setting up an online profile, and it’s important to understand these and share them with your child before you create anything online.

Some of the main risks of having online profiles include:

• Cyberbullying
• Privacy invasion
• Identity theft
• Exposure to offence or upsetting content
• Grooming
• Phishing

These risks have consequences that range from causing your child distress to putting them in serious danger from predatory adults. You should make sure that you explain these risks to them before you set up the profile, ensuring that they know the warning signs to look out for and understand why internet safety is so important. Online short safeguarding courses can be a useful resource in educating yourself on online safeguarding risks.

Top Tips for Setting Up a Safe Online Profile

Let your child know that one of the best ways to stay safe online is by setting up a safe online profile. Depending on their age, you can either ask them to follow the below advice or set up the profile with them and go through the following steps.

Choose a Secure Password

One of the most important things to teach about online safety for kids is the importance of choosing a secure password. This reduces the chance that their online account might be hacked and is a good introduction to personal security for online accounts.

Different websites or apps might have different criteria for what constitutes a ‘secure’ password, which may impact your choices. In general, it’s recommended that you get your child to use a mixture of letters, numbers, symbols and cases in their password to make it as unique as possible.

To help your child remember their password, encourage them to pick a memorable word, such as their favourite animal or a character from a book or television show. If you think they need help remembering it around, get them to write it down somewhere, disguised as something else.

Pick a Safe Username

Usernames are used on a range of online platforms to identify different profiles and often include the user’s real name. To protect your child’s identity and keep them safe, you should encourage them to choose a username that doesn’t include their name or any other personal information that could be used to identify or find them in real life.

Your child can still choose a username that feels personal by picking words that link to their favourite hobbies, colour, or animals or use a nickname. It’s also important to let them know never to share their real name with someone over the internet, unless they are sure that they’ve met them in real life already.

Limit Personal Information

On social media websites like Instagram and Facebook, setting up a profile and sharing content involves sharing more personal information in the form of photos and posts. With photos in particular, you should advise your child to avoid any images of themself that link them to a particular location or group, such as in their school uniform, in a sports club uniform, or outside of your house. These images could be used by predators to find your child in real life.

You should also supervise your child whilst they’re writing a bio for their online profile, if it’s required. Again, advise them to avoid any personal details, such as their full name, age, their school and where they live.

Use a Family Email Address

If your child is still in primary school, a good idea is to set up a family email address and get them to use this to sign up for online accounts. You can set up the preferences on this account so that emails get sent every time there’s a notification, which allows you to keep an eye on their activity without having full access to their profile.

This can also be very useful if your child creates a profile on a gaming app or website where additional purchases can be made. Using a family email, and setting up email alerts to approve a purchase, will stop your child from buying anything you don’t approve of.

Check Additional Features

Some online platforms, apps and even devices have special features that are designed to give parents some control or insight into what their child is using them for. This is particularly useful for younger children that are less aware of the risks of using the internet, such as personal data privacy and the kind of content they might come across.

When setting up a profile with your child, you might be able to select options or restrict their account in a way that means they can’t connect with strangers’ accounts, can’t spend any money, or can’t receive messages. Some apps might have a kid-friendly version or give you the option to restrict any mature content that might be shown to your child whilst they’re using it.

Set Up Your Own Profile

When your children want to start using social media, a good way to give them independence whilst keeping an eye on their activity is to set up your own profile on the same site and connect with them so that you can see what they’re posting. You won’t be able to control what they post and interact with on these platforms, but you will be able to see it and can advise them on what they’re sharing.

Install Parental Controls

Finally, it’s worth investigating the different parental controls that you can install on apps, devices and even the broadband router for your house. These controls allow you to limit what your child will be able to do on their devices or on certain websites, which is very useful when they’re younger and you want to ensure they have a positive experience whilst online.

How to Talk to Your Child About Online Safety

When you’re helping a child to set up an online profile, it’s important to talk to them about online safety and the risks that using apps and websites might have. The most important thing to remember is to be honest but avoid sharing anything that might scare your child, as you want them to be able to enjoy all the benefits of being online.

Outline the potential risks of having an online profile that we shared at the start of this article. Explain that these things are unlikely to happen, but that they are something that your child should be aware of.

Next, explain what some of the warning signs of bad behaviour on the internet are. This will help your child to spot suspicious messages, potentially upsetting content or bullying behaviour when it starts, which hopefully means they’ll be able to remove themselves from potentially harmful situations or ask for help immediately.

The most important thing to share when you’re giving your child tips for staying safe online is that they should always talk to a trusted adult if they see or receive something that makes them feel sad, uncomfortable or unsure. Let them know that they can talk to you, another family member or someone at school about anything they experience online, and that they won’t get into trouble for sharing.

Summary

Technology is developing at ever-increasing rates, and more and more children are using it at younger and younger ages. Digital literacy and the ability to connect with others online are very important when children are growing up, so the best thing you can do is equip your child with the information they need to use the internet safely, with an online profile that doesn’t put them at risk.

In our contemporary hyper-connected world, the internet reigns supreme, permeating every aspect of our lives. With this ever-growing dependence, safeguarding our online activities has evolved into a critical endeavor, for lurking within the digital shadows lie a myriad of cyber threats and cunning hackers, poised to exploit our vulnerabilities.

Hence, a paramount solution emerges in the form of a Virtual Private Network (VPN), a digital sentinel that fortifies your digital fortress, protecting sensitive data and personal information with an impenetrable shield. In this discourse, we embark on a profound exploration of the indispensable role of VPNs, unveiling the reason behind their ubiquitous adoption in this era of data breaches and cyber vulnerabilities.

Enter the Cryptic Gateway: VPNs as Digital Guardians

Imagine, if you will, your data as a trove of precious gems, a treasure chest teeming with valuable insights into your identity, financial transactions, and private communications. Now, envision this chest traversing a perilous tunnel known as the internet, exposed to the nefarious intentions of potential thieves and eavesdroppers lurking at every digital turn. Enter the VPN, the valiant guardian of your digital treasure chest.

Once you initiate the VPN download and activate its service, behold the birth of a secure encrypted tunnel that unites your device with the VPN server. Through this conduit flows all your online activities, from web browsing to file transfers and communications, now rendered indecipherable to any prying eyes attempting to intercept them. This encrypted data transforms into an enigmatic code, defying the relentless efforts of hackers, government agencies, or malicious entities seeking to unveil your personal information. With this digital sanctuary in place, you traverse the vast internet landscape with renewed confidence, assured that your data remains sheltered from the malevolent gaze of cyber predators.

The Dance of Identity on Public Wi-Fi: The VPN Enigma

Life on the go often demands connectivity, and in the embrace of public Wi-Fi networks, we find respite. Alas, this convenience is a double-edged sword, as these open networks breed vulnerability, a paradise for opportunistic hackers with malicious intent.

With the VPN draped around your device like an invisible cloak, you become invulnerable to the perils of public Wi-Fi. Connecting to these networks with the VPN activated enshrouds all your data in a cocoon of encryption, rendering it impervious to the prying claws of hackers. Your identity remains concealed, and your personal data embraces an impenetrable stronghold, evading the clutches of cyber assailants.

Beyond Borders: The VPN Key to Digital Freedom

The internet, a tapestry connecting souls across borders, yet not all threads are woven equal. Certain digital territories bar access to coveted content and websites based on your geographical location. The frustration sets in while you wander, yearning to indulge in your favorite streaming services, social media platforms, or reliable news websites, only to discover their virtual doors bolted shut in your present region.

Fear not, for the VPN brandishes the key to unlock the gateways of the internet, transcending territorial boundaries. By tethering to a VPN server in a distant land, your true location takes on a mirage-like quality, seamlessly assimilating with the server’s location. Behold, you gain passage to restricted content, evading the censor’s gaze and savoring an unbridled internet experience.

The Enigmatic Veil of Privacy and Anonymity

In an era when data breaches and privacy transgressions have become commonplace, safeguarding online privacy and anonymity emerges as a burgeoning concern. ISPs, advertisers, and certain websites stalk your digital footprints, constructing user profiles to bombard you with targeted advertisements. Meanwhile, governmental and surveillance agencies lurk in the digital shadows, keenly observing internet traffic for undisclosed purposes.

Fear not, for the VPN drapes you in an enigmatic veil of anonymity, concealing your digital visage from prying eyes. Through IP address obfuscation and traffic rerouting, your online activities become shrouded in secrecy, impenetrable to third-party surveillance. Even your ISP remains blind to your internet sojourns, preserving the sanctity of your digital existence.

The Cyber Enigma: A Shield Against Threats

In the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats, malevolent forces deploy ingenious tactics to breach personal data and pry into sensitive information. Phishing attacks, malware invasions, ransomware assaults, and menacing man-in-the-middle schemes prowl the digital terrain, ready to ensnare the unwary.

Yet, the VPN emerges as the stalwart shield against these digital perils. The encryption it bestows upon your data during transmission thwarts the schemes of hackers, rendering their efforts futile. Moreover, with additional security features such as ad blockers, malware scanners, and kill switches, the VPN fortifies your cyber ramparts, staving off the malevolent tide.

Epilogue: A Digital Odyssey of Protection

In an age where our destinies intertwine irrevocably with the digital realm, ensuring the security of our online activities metamorphoses into an inescapable duty. Embrace the VPN download, for it wields the power to encrypt your data, shield your identity in public Wi-Fi realms, traverse geographical boundaries, safeguard your privacy, and deter cyber threats. An indomitable ally in this technological saga, a reputable VPN service beckons, a beacon of hope to fortify your digital existence and protect the essence of your online being.

As October rolls around, the most bewitching time of the year, the excitement for Halloween begins to build — especially for your little ones! It’s a time when kids can let their imaginations run wild and transform into their favorite characters while having fun dressing up.

Whether your child loves superheroes, animals, fairytales or movie characters, there is a costume for every tiny trickster. We’ve rounded up a cauldron of boo-tifully creative Halloween costume ideas that will make this season a magical and memorable experience for youngsters.

9 Halloween Costume Ideas

Let’s explore these Halloween costume ideas that will have your child saying “trick or treat” with glee.

Superhero Sensation

It’s time to save the day! Let your child express their inner superhero with a costume inspired by their favorite crime-fighter. They can dress up as famous heroes like Spider-Man, Superman, Wonder Woman or even create their unique superhero character with a customized costume.

By wearing a hero-inspired suit, they will feel powerful and invincible while promoting courage, strength and confidence that anyone can be a hero in their own way.

Disney Delight

Disney characters always hold a special place in children’s hearts. So, allow them to enter the magical Disney world with costumes inspired by their beloved characters.

They can dress up as Woody from Toy Story, wearing kids cowboy boots, a hat and a vest or even as Elsa from Frozen, with a beautiful blue gown and a sparkling tiara. You can opt for classic Disney princess costumes like Cinderella, Belle, and Ariel or well-loved characters like Olaf or Mickey Mouse.

The options are endless. So, let their imagination guide them in choosing the perfect Disney costume to make them feel like they’ve stepped right into their most awesome adventure or favorite fairy tale.

Pirate Party

Arrr matey! Let your kids sail the high seas with a swashbuckling pirate costume fit for a little buccaneer. Complete their look with a classic pirate hat, eye patch, striped shirt, a satchel for their “trick or treat” treasures, and a peg leg or hook for an authentic touch.

With a pirate costume, your child can embark on a thrilling adventure as they search for hidden treasure around their neighborhood or engage in imaginative play as the captain of their own pirate ship and epic battles with imaginary foes.

Royal Extravaganza

Be ready to roll out the red carpet because your little one is about to become royalty!

Transform your child into a prince or princess, and watch them embrace their regal side with a dazzling royal costume. Let your kid’s true majestic colors shine through the classic princess look with a flowing gown and a sparkly tiara. You can also add a magic wand to complete the royal ensemble. For the little princes, a princely suit with a crown and a cape will make them feel ready to rule a kingdom.

Space Explorers

For those who dream of traveling among the stars and exploring the vast universe, an astronaut costume is an ideal choice!

Gear them up with a space suit with a matching space helmet to complete their look. Let their imaginations soar as they embark on intergalactic adventures and explore the cosmos in search of sweet treats. Who knows? Maybe one day, they’ll be the next astronaut to set foot on the moon!

Cute and Cuddly Animals

Can anything be more adorable than seeing your little one dressed up as their favorite animal? Whether they choose to be a fluffy bunny, a roaring lion, a playful puppy or a graceful butterfly, they will surely melt hearts with their adorable animal outfit.

Ask them which animal they want to be next Halloween, and allow them to guide you with their imagination in creating the perfect animal costume. Feel free to get creative with face paint, fur accessories, or even a onesie that resembles their chosen animal.

Robot Wonders

Beep, boop, and bop as a futuristic robot! If your child is fascinated by technology and the possibility of the future, they can embrace their interests in a cool robot costume.

With shiny materials, metallic colors and some creativity, you can create a unique and eye-catching robot costume for your little one. Use cardboard boxes, silver duct tape and other craft supplies if you plan to DIY your kid’s robot costume.

Magical Creatures

Bring enchantment to your child’s Halloween experience by transforming them into their favorite fairytale creatures or mythical beings.

They can be a majestic unicorn with a rainbow-colored mane and a sparkling horn. Perhaps they want to be a fairy with delicate wings and a sparkly wand. Or why not be a mermaid with a shimmering tail or a dragon with scales and wings?

When it comes to dressing up as magical creatures, there are infinite possibilities. Encourage your child to choose the mystical creature that resonates most with them and let their imagination take flight as they embody their chosen character.

Boo-tiful Ghosts and Friendly Witches

Who says ghosts and witches always have to be terrifying? Just like Casper the Friendly Ghost or Hermione Granger from Harry Potter, your child can show that even spooktacular creatures can be friendly and approachable. Embrace the fun side of Halloween by combining traditional spooky costumes like ghosts, skeletons and witches with a friendly and playful twist.

To achieve the perfect ghoul costume, cut out eye holes in a white sheet and let your child wear it over their clothes. For an extra touch, add some glow-in-the-dark paint or accessories to make them truly stand out in the dark.

Create a captivating witch costume by finding a whimsical dress or robe in orange and black for the true Halloween spirit. Pair it with a pointy hat and a broomstick for the ultimate witchy look.

With your kid wearing a white sheet and a warm smile or a pointy hat and a colorful robe, they can be the cutest ghost or friendliest witch on the block!

Let the Fun Begin with These Kid-Friendly Halloween Costumes

This Halloween, let your child’s vivid imagination take center stage as they step into the shoes of their favorite characters and live out their fantasy worlds. From iconic superheroes and Disney characters to animals and magical beings, there are countless costume ideas for every little trick-or-treater.

Remember, safety always comes first. So, ensure that their costumes are comfortable and easy to move around in as much as they are exciting, visually appealing and adorable.

With these fun and kid-friendly Halloween costume ideas, your kid will definitely have an enchanting and unforgettable Halloween experience. Happy trick-or-treating!

Teachers, explore ideas for your classroom’s halloween party.
Explore adorable matching outfits for every holiday.

We all know the adage “money doesn’t grow on trees,” and yet, understanding how money works can be a challenge for kids. To help them master the concept of finances from an early age, you can use an array of online resources. Engaging, practical, and entertaining, these digital platforms turn learning about money into a fun yet highly educational endeavor.

10 Useful Resources to Help Children Learn About Money

From check designing to virtual stock trading, let’s explore some top-notch online resources aimed at teaching this vital life skill to children. Here are 10 we think your kids will love.

1. Biz Kids

If you’re looking for a fun and interactive way for your child to learn about money, “Biz Kids” is the answer. This public television series turns finance into a child-friendly subject with its engaging episodes. Kids can even “simulate real-world transactions, adding a practical touch.

2. PDFSimpli

PDFSimpli has a wide variety of resources your kids can use to play with financial products safely. For example, you can design your own checks that are kid-friendly, void, and similar to real checks. This gives children the chance to understand how to write checks while young.

3. Practical Money Skills

Practical Money Skills For Life, offered by Visa, is a great resource tailored for kids of various age groups. The platform turns learning about budgeting, saving, and wise spending into a game. With activities like ‘Financial Football,’ finance education has never been so engaging.

4. TreasuryDirect KIDS

For a more government-focused approach, TreasuryDirect KIDS is an excellent resource. Run by the U.S Government, the website provides lessons on finance basics such as bonds and Treasury securities. It serves as a unique platform for kids to get acquainted with economics.

5. The Stock Market Game

The Stock Market Game™ is a dynamic resource that allows kids to gain practical investment skills. By providing a safe environment to invest virtual money in real stocks, children can learn the ropes of trading and investment strategy without the real-world risk of financial loss.

6. For Me, for You, for Later

“For Me, for You, for Later” is a Sesame Street episode and pamphlet that teaches children the first steps of spending, sharing, and saving. This toolkit consists of printable activities that are perfect for preschoolers learning about money and how to spend or save it appropriately.

7. Adventure Capitalist

Adventure Capitalist! is an exciting game-based learning platform that introduces players to the world of entrepreneurship. As kids manage businesses within the gameplay, they learn valuable economic insights. Its effectiveness in teaching about money cannot be emphasized enough.

8. Jump$tart’s Reality Check

Jump$tart’s Reality Check is an engaging simulation tool that lets students envision their future lifestyles based on career choices. It brings home the impact of decisions on personal financial scenarios. With a reality check, kids learn to balance dreams with financial practicalities.

9. The Council for Economic Education

The Council for Economic Education’s site houses EconEdLink, a series of videos developed for young learners. The series breaks down economics using real-world examples in a manner suitable for kids. EconEdLink provides an effective platform for kids to grasp financial concepts.

10. H&R Block’s Budget Challenge

H&R Block’s Budget Challenge® offers older students a chance to manage their finances on a simulated platform. They learn how to handle payrolls, insurance costs, and tax calculations as they would in real life. This helps teenagers get an early head start on managing finances.

In Conclusion…

Starting financial education early is one of the keys to paving a path toward a financially secure future. With these engaging online resources, learning about money has never been more accessible or fun. Don’t hesitate to introduce these platforms and games in their daily routine.