At Vodafone, keeping everyone connected safely is our priority. We are fully supportive of parents and guardians in deciding if their child is ready for their own device.
There are some key points to consider while thinking about your child entering the digital world:
Frequent, open communication is crucial. If you feel your child isn’t ready to use their own phone, talk to them about the responsibilities that come with it and explain that every family makes decisions based on what’s best for them. You could suggest other ways to stay connected with friends.
If your child is online, it’s important to create a safe space for them to discuss their digital life without fear of getting into trouble. Emphasise that anything they post online could potentially stay there forever.
Before giving your child a device, we’d recommend agreeing on how it should be used, including setting aside time for offline activities and interactions.
When setting up your child’s device, make sure the appropriate parental controls are in place to manage what your child can see and do online. Explain to your child the importance of these measures for their protection, to involve them and encourage their support.
Most apps and search engines allow you to set up content filters, while the Vodafone Secure Net App blocks harmful or unsafe content when connected to the Vodafone network.
All parents should be aware of the forms cyberbullying can take, so they can respond effectively if their child is affected by online bullying or harassment. Look out for:
By staying informed, setting boundaries and maintaining open communication, you can empower your child to navigate the digital world safely.