New Device, Now What? A Parent’s Checklist for Tech Safety

So your kid just got a shiny new device. Maybe it was a birthday gift, a reward for good grades, or a necessity for school. No matter the reason, giving your child their own phone, tablet, or laptop is a big milestone — for them and for you.

You might feel excited, proud, nervous, or even a little overwhelmed. Because let’s be honest: today’s devices are basically a portal to the entire world.

And that means the moment your child opens that device, they’re not just playing games or texting friends — they’re navigating online risks, exposure to strangers, data collection, and the potential for digital drama.

Here’s the good news:You don’t need to be a tech expert to set your child up for success. You just need a plan — and a little backup. That’s where we come in.

Why This Checklist Matters

Most devices come with default settings that prioritize convenience over safety. App stores are open, chat features are enabled, and location sharing is often turned on by default. That’s not ideal — especially for younger users.

The first 24–48 hours with a new device are an opportunity to shape expectations, model responsible habits, and lock down privacy before risky behavior ever starts.

Think of this as your digital safety starter pack a checklist to get your child’s device set up the Future Proof way: smart, secure, and age-appropriate.

Step 1: Set It Up Together

Instead of handing over the device and walking away, take a few minutes to explore it together. This builds trust and gives you insight into how your child thinks about tech.

What to do:

• Create a child-specific user profile (if the system allows). This helps manage permissions and restricts access to mature content.

• Avoid linking your own personal Google/Apple ID to their device. Consider using family sharing or a child account instead.

• Help them choose a secure passcode—not “1234” or their birthday.

• Turn off auto-location sharing for apps that don’t need it.

• Set screen time or app limits during the setup process so it doesn’t become a battle later.

  
  

  Conversation tip: “We’re setting this up together because we want you to have fun with your tech — and be smart about how you use it.”

  
  

Step 2: Secure the Device Like a Mini Fort

Once the basics are done, it’s time to dig into security and privacy settings. This doesn’t have to be overly complicated but you want to take a few extra minutes to make sure the device isn’t a wide-open window.

What to do:

• Install a parental control app that gives you visibility (not total control). We like Bark, Qustodio, or the built-in Screen Time tools from Apple or Google Family Link.

• Enable automatic software updates. This helps protect against vulnerabilities.

• Review permissions for apps—especially ones that request camera, microphone, or location access.

• Turn off in-app purchases (unless you enjoy surprise $9.99 charges for virtual pets 🐱).

• Check app store restrictions so they can’t download age-inappropriate content.

  

  
  

  Bonus Tip: Take a look at the search engine settings in the default browser — you can often enable “safe search” to help filter explicit content.

  
  

Step 3: Build a Culture of Check-Ins

Let’s be real: you can’t (and shouldn’t) monitor everything your child does online. Instead of surveillance, focus on building a habit of open, ongoing conversations.

What to do:

• Create tech-free zones like bedrooms at night and the dinner table. Devices stay in shared spaces where it’s easier to check in.

• Do a weekly "tech talk" — not to interrogate, but to stay curious. Ask what new apps they’re using or if they’ve seen anything weird or funny online.

• Normalize asking for help. Make sure your child knows that if something inappropriate pops up, or if someone online makes them uncomfortable, they can come to you without fear of getting in trouble.

Mindset shift: Tech safety isn’t a one-time talk — it’s an ongoing part of parenting. The more normal it feels to talk about online life, the safer your child will feel bringing things to you.

Step 4: Stay Informed — Together

Technology changes fast. New apps, games, and trends pop up all the time, and what was safe last year might be risky today. The best way to stay ahead? Stay curious and learn with your child.

What to do:

• Bookmark Future Proof for practical, parent-friendly guides on everything from new threats to cool tech careers.

• Follow a few trusted cybersecurity accounts (including ours 😉) to stay in the loop without getting overwhelmed.

• Watch a YouTube video together on internet safety or digital citizenship.

• Encourage your child to ask you questions too—turn it into a two-way street.

  

Fun Idea: Have your child “teach” you how to use one of their favorite apps. Not only will it empower them, but it helps you learn how it works from their perspective.

Final Thought: You’re Not Alone in This

It’s easy to feel like you’re constantly playing catch-up when it comes to tech. But remember: you don’t have to be perfect — you just have to be present.

Your willingness to show up, ask questions, and guide your child makes all the difference. They don’t need a digital fortress. They need a digital foundation and you’re already building it.

You've got this, we’ve got your back.