It is hard to believe that the modern smartphone is slightly over a decade old. In that time, the prevalence of and reliance upon these devices has seemingly overtaken society. And, for as much as they are helpful in myriad ways, there are also serious downsides to being constantly tied to them — not the least of which is device “screen time” and the effect it has on our children, especially during the summer months.

Depending on what study you read, the average ages a child gets his or her first smartphone is anywhere between 6 and 10, and by 13 one study suggests 83 percent of youth have their own phone. Just as with adults, smartphone use by youth continues to rise. Arguments against children using these devices notwithstanding, for those who do have them, parents should at least be mindful of what their kids are doing online and the real threats that exist.

Social media apps and the World Wide Web that enables them could very well be described as the wild, wild west — an open field for predators seeking to bully, “dox,” steal identities or worse. Children are particularly vulnerable as they are less likely to discern threats.

June is National Internet Safety Month, and it was established to help raise awareness of these dangers and steps that can be taken to mitigate them.

The Michigan State Police is a leader in cybersecurity and has compiled a list of internet safety tips for kids. Part of its efforts also includes a “Pledge for Online Safety” that is designed for parents to go over with their kids to ensure they practice safe behavior.

Another tool available for parents to help protect their kids online is the ProtectMIChild registry. This free service is a “frontline defense in blocking adult-themed content from reaching your child or teen on their phone, tablet or other electronic device.” By signing up your kids’ phone numbers, email addresses and instant message IDs, parents can help prevent certain adult content from reaching them. 

For even more information on online safety, visit the Michigan Cyber Safety Initiative website at Michigan.gov/csi and the National Cyber Security Alliance at StaySafeOnline.org.

Despite the threats, the web is an incredible, educational and fun resource. By staying vigilant, we can help keep our kids and ourselves safe online.

Kim LaSata, R, represents the 21st District, which includes Berrien, Cass and St. Joseph counties. She can be reached at (517) 373-6960 or SenKLaSata@senate.michigan.gov