24/02/2026
Family Tech Tip #6 from Better Screen Time:
Set up tech safeguards on your home internet and devices.
Let's be real—no filter or monitoring service is perfect. But setting up parental controls and safety features on your home router and devices adds an important layer of protection. Think of it like a speed bump: it helps prevent young kids from accidentally encountering harmful content and gives older kids and teens a moment to pause before trying to get around safety settings.
I know what you're thinking – "Great, one more thing to add to my never-ending parent to-do list!" But here's the thing: when we give our kids access to the internet, we're essentially giving them access to the entire world. Just like we wouldn't let our 7-year-old wander into inappropriate places in the real world, we need to create similar boundaries online.
Remember though: the strongest filter is the one your child develops within themselves. While tech safeguards provide that crucial first line of defense, your ongoing conversations and open relationship with your child are your most powerful tools. When kids know they can come to you if they encounter something troubling online, that's worth more than any safety setting.
Ready to take action? Start by:
1. Looking up your home router model online to explore its built-in safety features
2. Searching "[device name] + parental controls" for each device in your home
3. Using free online tutorials to guide you through the setup process
The setup process might take a little time now, but it's an investment in your family's online safety that's worth making.
These tech tips can be downloaded at https://better-screen-time.kit.com/e226eac465
