Parents restrict cell phone use: How to protect their children!

Parents restrict cell phone use: How to protect their children!

In an increasingly digitized world, parents are forced to actively intervene in the cell phone use of their children. According to a current survey by Krone , 51 percent of parents restrict the screen times or the use of apps technologically. Another important aspect for many parents is the protection of the personal data of their children: 43 percent adapt to the corresponding settings or monitor browser courses and chats to ensure that their children are safe on the Internet.

The concerns of the parents are also aimed at unsuitable content and non -released purchases. Around 70 percent of those surveyed believe that they should be blocked. In this context, there is a certain trust in technical solutions: Four out of ten parents consider child and youth protection services to be helpful in app stores. The "Drei" mobile phone brand has taken on a pioneering role in these efforts.

Initiatives for safe media dealings

"three" has launched the "Safe" initiative, which aims to enable children to get into the digital world safe. In the “three” business in Austria, parents can acquire the first cell phone for their children at the early age of four to six years. Here the service "Child and youth protection Go" supports the parents in the facility. Shop employees help to create children's accounts, to determine screen times and to block content and to manage buying inquiries.

In addition, "three" cooperates with the Austrian start-up "Ohana", which has developed an innovative child safety app. Although this app does not monitor chats or browser courses, warns of inappropriate websites and offers additional functions such as a learning mode for applications and a sleep mode for minimizing distractions. A paid subscription is required for use.

test results and recommendations for child protection apps

A comprehensive test of child protection apps by Stiftung Warentest has evaluated seven different apps and analyzed their functions. The price range of these applications ranges from free offers to prices from over 70 euros. In addition to the apps tested, the protective functions of Apple IOS and Google Android were also considered. The test offers helpful tips for using child protection software, and experts recommend how parents can block unsuitable websites.

media educators emphasize the need for competent and critical use of media by children and adolescents. This correlates with media literacy, which according to the Federal Ministry of Youth is essential for a responsible handling of digital content. Initiatives and programs, such as those of BMFSFJ , draw attention to this need and offer comprehensive information for parents and specialists to strengthen media education.

FAZIT

Digital media use is an inevitable part of everyday life for children and adolescents. Active support from parents and the use of appropriate child protection apps are crucial to ensure their security on the Internet. In combination with state initiatives for media education, there is an extensive basis for healthy dealing with digital media in the family.