Teens want to be independent, and they should have opportunities to make independent decisions. However, they still need to be safe. As your teens get older and transition from middle to high school or high school to college, you may wonder about the best way to keep them safe. After all, you can’t be there every minute. There are several safety apps for teens that are there when you can’t be. Green Hills Pediatric Associates has chosen a few worth considering.
Safety apps for teens:
TeenSafe
TeenSafe, has been heralded as the most advanced and informative of all safety apps. It monitors text messages and calls so teens can’t go over minute limits parents set or call people they shouldn’t. The app comes with a pause button parents can push on their phones, which freezes their teen’s phone. This way, the teen can’t text and drive, even for short trips. Finally, the app can instantly pinpoint your teen’s exact GPS location to give an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
Net Nanny
The internet is a wonderful place full of educational and networking opportunities for your teen; however, it contains many dangers. Net Nanny helps protect your teen from online predators, sites you have not approved, and other internet pitfalls. With Net Nanny, you can block and filter any internet activity you want. If you’re worried your teen is playing games instead of doing his homework, block them. If your teen is chatting too much, a time limit can be set via the app.
Digital Compass
Some parents don’t want their kids to use the internet extensively until they’re at least in middle school. The problem is, sixth- through ninth-graders may not know all they should about digital safety. The Digital Compass app teaches young teens what they need to know and tests their knowledge through interactive modules and mini-games.
OurPact
Every family’s internet rules are different, and this app lets you customize internet use for your family. With OurPact, you can set time limits on your teen’s smartphone, tablet, or other devices. You can create a digital schedule so teens know who can use the internet, when, and for how long. If you want to reward your child, OurPact enables you to build in extra internet time.
SecureTeen
Too often children are able to access harmful, adult websites online. SecureTeen removes dangerous and mature content from your child’s internet devices and blocks out predators, stalkers and cyber bullies. Additionally, it allows parents to track their child’s internet use and mange their online time.
Sex Offender Search (SOS)
Online sex offenders targeting their teens is every parent’s worst nightmare. The SOS app ensures your teen is a bit safer from predators. With it, you can view registered offenders in your area, including places your teen will spend the most time. The app comes with an address book to help you search contacts, and you can activate your phone’s GPS from anywhere using it.
Remember, though we live in a digital age and have a plethora of tools available to help, face-to-face conversations with your child are still the utmost importance in keeping him or her safe.
The information and content on our website should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment or advice from your doctor.
