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Back-to-school season doesn’t just mean shopping for notebooks and backpacks. For many families, it’s a time to invest in new laptops, tablets and other devices for their students. While people often focus on the technology, it’s easy to miss the online world those devices connect to. 

Improving your family’s online safety isn't complicated. A few simple conversations and security checks can help create a safer online experience for children of all ages. Use this back-to-school internet safety checklist to help your family start the school year with confidence. 

 

1.   How can I protect my kids online? 

One of the best ways to keep kids safe online is to teach them how to recognize potential risks and red flags. Starting these conversations early helps children develop good digital habits and understand your expectations for using technology. 

Talk to your kids about how to spot warning signs, including: 

• Links, messages or follow requests from people they don’t know.
• Requests for passwords, personal information or payment details.
• Offers promising free gaming currency, prizes or giveaways.
• Pop-ups that encourage app downloads or direct them to other websites. 

Platforms like TikTok, Snapchat and Discord can expose children to inappropriate content. They may also face scams, cyberbullying, and contact with strangers on chat apps. While these platforms can be fun, parents should stay involved and often talk with children about using them correctly. 

 

2.   What is the best parental monitoring app? 

Parental monitoring tools can help families manage screen time, monitor online activity and identify possible safety concerns. 

The Midco Wi-Fi app, available for anyone with Midco Wi-Fi, also offers parental control features for monitoring online activity. 

Parents can assign devices to family members on the network. They can manage internet access and apply content filters. Filters can match age and household preferences. 

 

3.   How can I limit internet access during homework or activities? 

Between homework, sports practices and after school activities, distractions can add up quickly. Creating technology-free periods can help reduce distractions and encourage balance. 

The Midco Wi-Fi app lets parents pause internet access or restrict devices during homework time. It also lets them schedule time outs for band practice, reading time or family activities. 

From helping your student focus on homework or create screen-free time before bed, these tools support routines that work best for your family. 

 

4.   What should kids know about AI? 

Artificial Intelligence tools can be helpful for learning, brainstorming and creativity, but they’re not always accurate. 

Teach your child to: 

• Verify information provided by AI tools. 
• Avoid sharing personal or sensitive information with AI chatbots.
• Use AI as a learning tool, not a replacement for critical thinking.
• Understand that AI can edit or manipulate images and videos. 

As AI becomes more common in school, it’s important to help students check information and think critically.  

 

5.   How do I secure my home Wi-Fi? 

A secure home Wi-Fi network is one of the best ways to help protect your kids online. Before the school year begins, take a few minutes to check that your network is protected. 

Security checklist: 

• Use a strong, unique Wi-Fi password.
• Keep router and devices up to date.
• Remove unused devices from network.
• Enable antivirus software when available. 

Every connected device, from phones and computers to TVs and smart home devices, can be entry points to your network. Keeping these devices updated and properly secured helps create a safer environment online for the entire family.