A tech expert shares insights on keeping kids safe in the digital world
Growing up, gaming was a huge part of his life. He and his brother loved diving into worlds like Mario and Zelda. Those experiences shaped his love for history and learning. Now, as a parent, he sees the internet as both amazing and risky, much like the ocean.
Sean believes that instead of cutting out screen time, parents should help kids build resilience. It’s important to talk about online dangers just like you would about real-world risks. Kids need to know they can come to their parents if something feels off online.
He also emphasizes the need to balance online time with real-life activities. He’s seen how gaming can be a great escape but also how it can lead to addiction. It’s easy for teens to lose track of time and neglect their responsibilities.
Anonymity is another big topic. Back in the day, gamers knew who they were playing with. Now, online anonymity can lead to harassment and misinformation. Educating kids about this is crucial.
Sean also points out the real money involved in gaming today. Kids often want to buy virtual currency, which can lead to financial issues and manipulation. Parents should remind them to use safe practices when making purchases.
He stresses the importance of parental controls. If parents don’t set them up, they won’t work effectively. He admires the controls on YouTube Kids, which require some effort but are worth it.
Finally, Sean encourages parents to use available resources. Organizations like NetSmartz and Common Sense Media offer great help for navigating online safety. He feels a strong duty to protect kids, just like he did in the military, and he’s committed to promoting safety in the digital world.
