Online Safety Tips for Spring Break

Spring Break is a time for relaxation and fun – offering a break from the usual routine. With the increase of free time, kids often turn to devices for entertainment, whether it’s streaming shows, playing games or socializing with friends online. Though the internet offers opportunities to learn and explore, it also presents risks.

For a safe Spring Break, we’ve created a guide to help protect your kids online in addition to fun, screen-free activities.

Online Safety Tips

1. Talk About Online Safety – Remind your kids to not share personal information, click suspicious links or engage with strangers online. Encourage them to tell you if they encounter anything unusual or concerning.
2. Secure Your Network – Protect your home Wi-Fi with strong, unique passwords. The MidSouth Fiber App helps monitor network activity, identify connected devices and alerts you to potential security threats. MidSouth Fiber customers enjoy a reliable, secure connection with easy-to-use app features for peace of mind.
3. Set Up Parental Controls – Manage your child’s online access, block inappropriate sites and monitor activity with parental controls. The MidSouth Fiber App lets you customize controls, set internet usage schedules and block content from your smartphone.
4. Establish Screen Time Limits – Balance online and offline activities with daily screen time limits. The MidSouth Fiber App lets you schedule internet breaks and create profiles to manage each family member’s screen time.
5. Keep Devices Updated – Regularly update your kids’ devices to ensure they have the latest security features. Updated apps and operating systems can reduce the risks of cyber threats.

Screen-Free Activity Ideas

• Outdoor Adventures: Plan a day at the park, a hike on a local trail or a scavenger hunt in your neighborhood.
• Creative Crafts: Break out the art supplies for a day of painting, drawing or crafting DIY projects.
• Game Time: Dust off classic board games or create your own family trivia night.
• Cooking Fun: Let the kids help make their favorite snacks or experiment with new recipes.
• Reading Challenge: Visit the library and challenge them to read a certain number of books over the break.

With MidSouth Fiber Internet, you get more than just fast, reliable connectivity—you get tools like the MidSouth Fiber App, which helps you manage internet usage and protect your family online with ease. By prioritizing online safety and encouraging screen-free activities, you can create a Spring Break that’s both enjoyable and memorable for everyone!