Children and Computers: Physical and Device Safety

Keeping our children safe and protected from possible risks is naturally a top priority for any parent, and the realm of computer usage is no exception. There are multiple things to be thinking about when it comes to keeping kids safe with their computer usage, whether it's physical safety around electronic devices or online safety themes.

At PC Laptops, we're proud to not only offer a wide range of laptop and desktop computers to clients around Salt Lake City, Sandy, West Jordan, Murray and other parts of Utah, but also to provide expertise in important areas like these. In this two-part blog series, we'll discuss everything to know about protecting children as they use computers - part one will focus on physical and device safety, while part two will go over online safety tips that parents should be strongly considering.

Plugs and Electricity

Especially if your children are under 8 years old or so, one of the first considerations is physical safety around electronic devices. Make sure that any cables, plugs and other accessories are out of reach so that your children don't accidentally try to touch them or cause a spark.

It's also important to keep computers away from water sources like sinks or bathtubs in order to avoid possible electrocution - if you have young kids in the house, be sure to have your laptop and desktop devices on a secure desk or table that's high enough away from the water.

Keep Computers Securely Away From Kids

If you're not using a computer at any given time, and your children are not old enough to be using it on their own just yet, make sure it's locked away in a secure area where children can't access it without supervision. This is critical for ensuring they stay safe from any potential risks associated with computers.

You should also be sure to keep the computer off when it's not in use, and consider getting surge protectors or power strips that will shut off automatically whenever there is a power outage. This will help make sure you don't have to worry about your kids inadvertently starting up the device without supervision.

Ensuring Basic Component Knowledge

No one is saying you need to make your child an expert in computer parts before they begin using these devices; rather, a bit of basic familiarity with common features goes a long way. If you're using a desktop computer with a mouse, for example, make sure they know how to use it properly and don't attempt to touch the parts inside of the tower.

If your children are allowed to handle a laptop, make sure they understand that certain pieces like memory cards may be removable - this is important for avoiding any accidental losses or damages. You can provide some basic understanding in these areas without going overboard; just enough to ensure that your child knows what they're doing when it comes to device safety.

These Aren't Toys

It's also vital to ensure that any children who are allowed to use computers understand that these aren't toys. They're important pieces of technology that should always be used properly and with respect - it's no different than having a conversation about handling any other types of delicate items in the house.

Give your children some basic guidance on how to use a device responsibly, including how to shut it down when they're done using it, where to store it when not in use, and so on. Knowing how to properly care for a laptop or desktop computer is an important part of usage safety as well.

How to Perform Basic Tasks

And if your kids are getting old enough to begin using computers on their own (or at least with minimal supervision), it's important to make sure they have at least a basic understanding of how to get around on the device. This could include everything from launching applications and programs, typing text, or performing searches - make sure they know how to do these things safely and securely before allowing them to explore more independently.

Also be sure they know how to shut down the computer properly when they're done using it, as this is an often overlooked part of device safety. Knowing how to perform basic tasks without any help will go a long way in ensuring your child's safety with computers.

In part two of our series, we'll dig into another area that many parents prioritize heavily: Keeping children safe while using the internet on any computer. For more on any kind of computer safety involving children, or to learn about any of our computer products or repair services for clients around SLC, Sandy, West Jordan, Murray and nearby areas, speak to our team at PC Laptops today.