A few nights ago, I was browsing through my Netflix account, which I share across several devices in our home, including my daughter’s iPod. In the process of scrolling through the list of recently watched shows, I found a few that concerned me. My daughter had been watching some of these unknown to my wife and I.
We quickly addressed the issue, and took steps to solve the problem. But I wonder what a lot of dads would have done. I have a list of resources that I can lean on for times like this, but many don’t know where to turn.
With that in mind, here is a brief list of a few websites and smartphone apps that can help you monitor and protect your family. These are resources that I’ve used or examined for potential use. Each one seems to do a pretty good job.
Plugged In Online
Created by Focus On The Family, the Plugged In website lists thousands of TV shows, movies, and games. It gives a brief synopsis, followed by both positive and negative elements. I’ve always used the web version, but the app looks increasingly good.
Norton Online Family
This app, from the internet security giant, allows parents to monitor web browser usage, including social media and searches. Pretty handy to have around.
FBI Child ID
This is a pretty cool app. Developed by the FBI, it allows you to store lots of vital information about your kids, including photos. That way, should you ever need to, you can provide details to the authorities about height, weight and other characteristics. Pretty good info to have on hand in a crisis.
Sex Offender Search
With information coming directly from the National Sex Offender Registry, this app helps you to know if there are any offenders living in your community or neighborhood.
These are only a sample of what’s out there. But they are resources that I’ve found to be helpful and have relied on them in the past. In today’s age of instant technological access, you and I need to be intentional when it comes to protecting our kids.
Hopefully, these will help.
Be deliberate, Dad!
There are many other great resources available. What else have you found to be helpful? You can leave your thoughts in the comments section below.