newYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
When my son was four years old and went to kindergarten, I taught him to use the kid’s phone I threw in his backpack. It has no app and four numbers: Mom, Dad, Grandma and 911. This time, before school shootings made headlines.
Many parents are shocked to discover what their kids are doing on their phone, tablet or computer. Don’t be that parent. Take the initiative. Just as you would have sex talk with your child, have a digital life talk. Tap or click my free tech contract that parents and kids can use to set boundaries.
One The new report shows During the 2021-2022 school year, there were 193 shootings on campus. I can’t imagine the stress of sending your kids to school right now and really questioning their safety.
That’s why I want to help any parent or guardian with school-aged children use the right technology. For your convenience, I’ve linked some useful products that you can view and order on Amazon. I earn a small commission on qualifying purchases, but I assure you that my advice is always independent.
Elementary students sit on the floor of the classroom library, admiring books donated by O3 Books. (Pathik Oza/O3 Books)
((Pathik Oza/O3 Books))
4 Quick Cybersecurity Steps Everyone Must Take Right Now
this is what i do
Many schools prevent children from using mobile phones in the classroom until they reach a certain age. Smartwatches can be better security tools than phones. That’s why.
In an emergency, kids can click a few buttons on the watch. This action is less noticeable than making a phone call, especially if the watch is hidden in a long sleeve.
For little kids, I love T-Mobile’s SyncUP KIDS watch. It can make calls and texts to approved contacts, but it also features real-time location tracking, virtual fences and one-touch calls for help or 911.
Apple Watch is great for older kids with iPhones. Keep in mind that this is designed for an adult wrist, so it is less suitable for younger children. Apple Watch SE It’s a good deal compared to the more expensive newer models.
Take the time to teach your child how to use any smartwatch.To use Apple’s emergency SOS feature, press and hold side key until the Emergency SOS slider appears. Drag the slider Call emergency services and send your child’s current location to any emergency contact. Here are the steps to set up an emergency contact.
For older children and teens with Android phones, Samsung Galaxy Watch Includes SOS functionality to send messages to designated emergency contacts along with location information. You can adjust the setting to access it by pressing the Home button three times. That’s it.
Skip Fitbits as they don’t have emergency or SOS features.
related: How to Set Up Parental Controls on All Your Child’s Devices: Windows, Apple, Android
JK Shin, head of Samsung mobile communications, presents the Samsung Galaxy Gear on Wednesday, September 4, 2013 in Berlin, Germany.
(AP Photo/Gero Breloer)
put a tracker on them or in a backpack
Tracking devices is another way to keep an eye on your child’s location throughout the day. It can also help you find them in an emergency.
If you have an iPhone, use AirTag. I have them everywhere: in my luggage, in my dog collar, in my car, in my wallet, you name it. Here are smarter uses for cheap trackers.
You can put one in your child’s backpack, but it may not always be on them. You do what you feel is right for your child. I love these accessories that stay on at all times:
Kids can tuck this silicone with tracker in a pocket or belt.
For very young children, necklaces may be more comfortable. This is a lovely two-pack that holds the AirTag securely in place.
this keychain holder A great option for teens and older kids, but keep in mind that it may stay in the pack.
For Android users, you can use tile tracker or a Samsung Galaxy SmartTag+.
Apps for your child’s phone
If your child has a phone and is allowed to bring it to school, there are a number of ways they can get in touch with you quickly and quietly.
Life360 Provides location tracking and a way to get help without saying a word. The free version includes SOS help alerts. If your child opens the app and taps or holds the SOS button, an alert with their location will be sent to the emergency contact you set up in advance.
Paid options start at $14.99 per month and add more features.
noon is another solid choice. Your child can press a button to silently ask for help. There is an extra step, so this one is best for older children and teens.
Using Noonlight, open the app and press and hold the “Hold until it’s safe” button. If there is no emergency, release the button and enter the four-digit code to cancel. Releasing the button without entering a code will notify the police of an emergency.
The secure network features are also excellent. You can request to check in with your child; if they don’t respond, the app will help you track them down. Note: This is for iPhone only. Security buttons are available for iPhone and Android.
Learn about your options: 9 safety apps you need in an emergency
practice at home
It pains me to say that, but you should also do safety drills at home so your kids know what to do if needed. Teach them how to use their smartwatch or phone app to contact you in an emergency.
Discuss with your child when and where it is appropriate to take out the phone — and what constitutes an emergency. This is especially important for younger children.
This quarter-sized Apple device allows users to track their personal belongings via Bluetooth technology.
(Melina Mara/The Washington Post via Getty Images)
Privacy Tip: 5 Ways You’re Being Tracked You Must Stop Now
Keep your technical knowledge going
My popular podcast is called “Kim Comando today.” It’s a complete 30-minute collection of tech news, tips, and callers from around the country with tech questions. No matter where you get your podcast, you can search for it. For your convenience, click the link below to see the most recent one episode.
Podcast Picks: Smart headlights, ads on Apple Maps, finding hidden trackers
Do you use a navigation app while driving? fasten your seatbelt. You may have to deal with ads that clutter your screen. Additionally, Ford wants to make nighttime driving easier with its smart headlights. Also, is someone spying on you with a hidden tracker? Here are the signs you need to look out for.
Find my podcast “Kim Komando Today” on Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player.
Just search for my last name “Komando”.
What digital lifestyle questions do you have?Call Kim’s national radio program and Click or click here to find it on your local radio station.
you can listen or watch The Kim Comando Show on your phone, tablet, TV or computer. Or tap or click here to view Kim’s free podcast.
Copyright 2022, West Star Multimedia Entertainment. all rights reserved. As an Amazon employee, I earn a small commission on qualifying purchases. I only recommend products that I believe in.
Learn about all the latest technologies The Kim Comando Show, the nation’s largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and advises on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to Online Privacy and Data Hacking.
For her daily tips, free newsletter, and more, visit her website: Komando.com
