What is parental control and how can it be used?

These days, kids have easy access to the internet, and it’s hard for parents to know what they’re up to. That’s why parental control software was introduced — to help create a safer online environment for children. This type of software helps parents protect their kids from online threats such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and digital dangers. In this blog, we’ll explain what parental control is, how it works, and the benefits of using it.

What is parental control?

Parental control is software that allows you, as a parent, to monitor your children’s online activities. Parental control is important if you want to make sure your children browse the internet safely. It’s designed to help protect your kids from online threats and ensure they’re only exposed to age-appropriate content. Parental control can be used to block access to certain websites, limit the time your kids spend online, and monitor their online behaviour. Curious about security software that includes parental controls? Discover our solutions like Norton 360 Advanced and McAfee+ Premium Family.

How can parental control be used?

Parental control includes a range of features, all aimed at keeping your children safe online. While not every software offers the exact same tools, below are some of the most common features:

• Website filtering: Probably the most common feature, this allows you to block access to websites with content that’s inappropriate for children, such as adult sites or social media platforms. It helps shield your kids from explicit content and other online threats.
• Content filtering: Another handy tool that filters out harmful or unsuitable content. Think violent videos, strong language, and anything else you don’t want your children exposed to.
• Time limits: Pretty self-explanatory — you can set limits on how much time your children spend online. Especially useful during summer to encourage more outdoor play!
• Activity monitoring: Want to keep an eye on what your kids are doing online? This lets you see which websites they visit, apps they use, or messages they send.
• Location tracking: Not always included, but definitely useful. If your kids have smartphones, this feature lets you track their location. Handy for when they’re travelling without you.

The benefits of parental control

Now you know what parental control is and how it works. Here’s a quick summary of the benefits:

• Protection from online threats: Cyberbullying and inappropriate content. By filtering what they shouldn’t see and monitoring their behaviour, you can ensure your children stay safe from harmful or unsuitable material.
• Peace of mind: Knowing your kids aren’t getting into trouble or seeing things they shouldn’t while browsing the web.
• Encouraging healthy habits: Time limit features are particularly useful for this. Help your children balance screen time with outdoor play, for example.
• Teaching responsible online behaviour: Help your children understand which sites to avoid and how to stay safe online. Parental control helps set those guidelines so they know what’s acceptable.

Conclusion

Parental control is a great tool for parents who want to keep their kids safe online, make sure they only see what’s appropriate, and encourage them to spend more time offline. While it’s no substitute for active parenting and communication, it’s incredibly helpful in building a safer online experience for children. Find all our security software with parental control on our website.