Examining Parents Perception on Elementary School Children Digital Safety

Abstract

ABSTRACT Children are exposed to digital devices at an early age. This study examines parents’ perception of student digital safety on technology use, time spent, parent concerns and knowledge on various digital safety topics. Through a survey-based study, we analyzed data collected from 113 parents. Parents mentioned that their kids use Internet via tablets and laptops primarily to watch videos, play games, and for schoolwork. Parents were knowledgeable about apps and gaps their children used for education and entertainment. Regarding time limits and restricting access, 40% of parents let their kids online for 1–2 hours in a day and 47% of parents set time limits. Parents are concerned all the time about their child’s digital safety with the biggest concern being their kids being exposed to sexual content and them talking to strangers. Parents perceive themselves to be knowledgeable on most of the digital safety topics discussed in this study. Parents recommend to ensure age restrictions and identity verification when using various websites and games. This study has implications for parents of elementary school children.