As parents, we want to ensure our children are safe from potential online dangers. One of the best ways to do this is by using parental controls on devices they use. This guide will help you understand how to keep kids safe by employing these powerful tools.

First, it's important to assess what devices your child has access to that connect to the internet. Whether it be a computer, phone or tablet, these can provide an open portal for your child to explore and potentially come into contact with inappropriate content. To prevent this, utilize the parental controls offered by each device’s operating system. For example, Apple offers Screen Time for iOS devices which allows parents to set restrictions like time limits and age-appropriate content settings as well as create categories of approved websites for their children.

In addition, there are third party applications available such as Qustodio which provide additional features like location tracking and activity monitoring capabilities so you can better monitor your child’s online activities from afar. These programs also allow you to block certain apps and websites while allowing others suitable for your child’s age group. Furthermore, some offer options like social media monitoring and alerting so you can be alerted when potentially dangerous activities occur on networks such as Facebook or Twitter.

Another great way of keeping kids safe is through communication with them about online safety protocols. Educate them about the potential risks of engaging in unprotected activities online such as sharing personal information or talking to strangers through chat rooms or messaging services like Snapchat and WhatsApp. Additionally remind them not to click on suspicious links or advertisements which could lead them into dangerous situations or expose their device to malware attacks. Instilling these values early in life will help them build healthy habits around technology usage that will last a lifetime!

Finally, it is essential that parents stay up-to-date with new technologies in order stay ahead of any emerging threats posed by technology today. By informing yourself about the current state of digital security measures available today you can make sure your family stays secure while enjoying all the benefits modern technology has brought us! Therefore take advantage of all resources available including reading articles and blog posts related topics and attending seminars hosted by tech companies who specialize in this field; doing so will ensure your kid’s safety now and in the future!

Overall, parental controls are invaluable tools when it comes protecting kids from potential harm caused by unrestricted access to the internet; however remember that they only constitute one piece of a larger puzzle when it comes ensuring kids' overall digital safety! With proper education combined with appropriate parental control settings working together they form an effective shield against malicious activities online – something every parent should strive for!