Back-to-School Digital Safety Checklist
The Top 7 Things Parents Should Do at the Start of a New School Year
We know navigating technology with your kids and teens can be tough.
We know you want to get it right.
We’re here to help.
The start of a new school year is the perfect time to re-evaluate your family’s plan for digital safety.
Our thanks to Bark for providing this Back-to-School Digital Safety Checklist. Bark is passionate about helping families understand and manage the digital devices their kids use every day.
Digital Safety Checklist
1. Take a digital inventory.
Did your kids get any new devices over the summer? Make a full list so you know what will need more defined boundaries for the new school year.
2. Charge devices in the kitchen or your bedroom at night.
It’s a good idea to get in the habit of keeping phones, tablets, and laptops out of your child’s bedroom to promote rest.
3. Create custom screen-time schedules.
Block access to everything but educational apps during the school day so kids can focus on learning and socializing with classmates. Follow these step-by-step instructions on how to set parental controls for popular devices, apps, social media, and more.
4. Monitor online activities with Bark.
You don’t know what you don’t know. Bark scans texts, apps, and social media for potential dangers and alerts you to issues.
5. Make sure your kid can always come to you.
Kids will eventually encounter unsettling, confusing, or even dangerous things online. Let them know they can always bring those things to you without having to worry about getting in trouble. Assure them you'll be understanding and helpful.
6. Talk about being a good digital citizen.
Have discussions about privacy, bullying, and demonstrating kindness when interacting with friends and classmates online.
7. Fill out a tech contract together.
Sit down and go over rules, expectations, and consequences that will manage your child’s use of their digital devices. This free template is a good start.
