In the digital age, the internet is a vast playground for our children. It's a place where they can learn, explore, and express their creativity. However, as parents and carers, we know that this playground also has its pitfalls. With the sheer volume of content available online, it's crucial to ensure our children are accessing age-appropriate material. Fortunately, tools like Google SafeSearch and YouTube Safety Mode can help us in this endeavor.
What is Google SafeSearch?
Google SafeSearch is a tool that helps filter out explicit content in Google's search results. It's not 100% accurate, but it can help you avoid most adult content. SafeSearch can be used on any device and is easy to turn on and off.
How to Enable Google SafeSearch
On a computer: Go to Search Settings on Google. Under "SafeSearch filters," check the box next to "Turn on SafeSearch." At the bottom of the page, click "Save."
On Android devices: Open the Google app and tap More > Settings > General. Turn on SafeSearch.
On iPhone and iPad: Open the Google app and tap More > Settings > Search settings. Turn on SafeSearch.
Remember, for SafeSearch to be effective, it needs to be enabled on each device your child uses.
What is YouTube Safety Mode?
YouTube Safety Mode, also known as Restricted Mode, is a setting that helps screen out potentially objectionable content that you may prefer not to see or don't want others in your family to stumble upon.
How to Enable YouTube Safety Mode
On a computer: Go to YouTube and sign in to your account. Click on your profile picture in the top right corner, then click on "Restricted Mode" at the bottom of the menu. Toggle the switch to ON.
On Android and iOS devices: Open the YouTube app and tap on your profile picture in the top right corner. Tap on "Settings," then "General." Toggle the "Restricted Mode" switch to ON.
Again, this setting needs to be enabled on each device your child uses.
Tips for Parents and Carers
Open communication: Establishing an open dialogue with your children about internet safety is crucial. Make sure they understand that the internet, while a valuable resource, can also pose risks. Encourage them to come to you with any questions or concerns they might have about something they've seen online.
Set boundaries: It's important to set clear, reasonable rules for internet use. This might include rules about which sites they can visit, what kind of information they can share, and how much time they can spend online each day. Make sure to explain why these rules are in place.
Monitor their activity: Regularly check your child's browsing history to see what sites they're visiting. You should also be aware of the apps they're using, especially social media apps. This can help you spot any potential issues before they become serious problems.
Use parental control software: There are many apps and software programs available that can help you monitor and control your child's online activity. These tools can block certain websites, limit screen time, and even track your child's location.
Educate yourself: The digital landscape is constantly changing, and it's important to stay informed about the latest trends and safety tools. This can help you better protect your child and guide them in their digital journey.
Remember, the goal isn't to shield your child from the internet, but to equip them with the knowledge and tools they need to use it safely and responsibly. By using tools like Google SafeSearch and YouTube Safety Mode, and by following these tips, you can help create a safer online environment for your child.
Locking Google SafeSearch
Locking SafeSearch is a great way to ensure that it stays on, even when you're not around to supervise. Here's how you can do it:
On a computer: Go to Search Settings on Google. Under "SafeSearch filters," check the box next to "Turn on SafeSearch." Then click on "Lock SafeSearch." You might need to sign in to your Google Account. Once you're signed in, click "Lock SafeSearch." It might take a moment, but once locking is complete, you'll see a confirmation message.
Please note that as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, Google has removed the option to lock SafeSearch on a browser. However, you can still lock SafeSearch on network level using Google's Family Link app or by setting up Google WiFi.
Google Family Link: This is a parental control app that allows you to set digital ground rules for your children. With Family Link, you can manage your child's Google Account and device, including locking SafeSearch. To do this, open the Family Link app, select your child's account, go to "Settings" > "Manage settings" > "Filters on Google Search" > "SafeSearch" and then turn it on.
Google WiFi: If you're using Google WiFi, you can lock SafeSearch for all devices connected to your network. Open the Google WiFi app, go to "Settings and actions" tab, then "Family WiFi" > "Site blocking" and then turn on SafeSearch.
Remember, locking SafeSearch is an extra layer of protection to help ensure that explicit content stays out of your child's search results. However, it's not a substitute for open communication and setting clear rules about internet use. It's always important to talk to your children about why these measures are in place and how they can stay safe online.
Troubleshooting: Can't Find the SafeSearch Option?
If you're having trouble finding the SafeSearch option, here are a few possible reasons:
You're not signed in: To change SafeSearch settings, you need to be signed in to your Google Account. Make sure you're signed in, and if you're not, sign in and try again.
You're using a different search engine: SafeSearch is a feature specific to Google. If you're using a different search engine like Bing or Yahoo, the SafeSearch option won't be available. Make sure you're on google.com before you try to change your SafeSearch settings.
SafeSearch is locked by a network administrator: If you're using a device provided by a school or workplace, or if you're connected to a network with certain restrictions, SafeSearch might be locked by the network administrator. In this case, you won't be able to change the SafeSearch settings. If you think this might be the case, contact your network administrator.
You're using an app or browser that doesn't support SafeSearch: Not all apps and browsers support SafeSearch. If you're using an app or browser that doesn't support this feature, you won't be able to find the SafeSearch option. Try using a different app or browser, or use Google's app or website.
Your country or region doesn't support SafeSearch: In some countries or regions, SafeSearch is always on and can't be turned off due to local laws and regulations. If you're in one of these regions, you won't be able to find the SafeSearch option.
Remember, SafeSearch is a helpful tool for filtering out explicit content, but it's not 100% accurate. It's always important to supervise your child's internet use and have open conversations about online safety.
Watch the video presentation
Demonstration on how to enable and disable Google safesearch