Although lots of digital devices engage children’s minds and spirits with educationally relevant content, when it comes to child care, you’ve got to set boundaries. If you haven’t considered using parental controls on smartphones and tablets to restrict what your child consumes, you should. Here’s why and how you should employ parental controls.

What Are the Benefits of Parental Controls?

Parental controls ensure that your child doesn’t watch or play with inappropriate content or make online purchases. They also stop children from connecting with strangers online. If you want to limit your child’s daily exposure to electronics, parental controls let you set alarms so you know when devices should be put away. You can use them to customize controls according to their age and your child care preferences.

How Do You Use Parental Controls?

Depending on the device, parental control setup takes different forms. On an iPad, for example, you access the settings, choose “Screen Time,” and turn it on. Tap on “Content & Privacy Restrictions,” enter and reenter your passcode, and you should be set. For other devices, the setup process is similar. If you have questions about setting up the appropriate parental controls on any of your child’s digital devices, consult with your child care provider.

You can install apps like Net Nanny®, which enables parental control over your child’s online activity. Kaspersky Safe Kids is a budget-friendly application to monitor screen time. The aptly named Screen Time app excels at scheduling and managing your child’s usage.

If you’re looking for a preschool that will provide high-quality child care and support your efforts to keep your children safe and healthy, contact Big Blue Bird Early Childhood Center in Lexington, KY. As one of the top preschools in the state, with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau®, they’re committed early childhood educators with before- and after-school programs. To learn more about how they can help, call (859) 299-9277 to talk to one of their licensed child care providers, or message them online.