They play, they watch videos, they click on everything… and sometimes, they stumble upon things they should never have seen.
Today, protecting your children online isn’t a “nice to have”, it’s essential. The good news? You don’t need to spend a single cent to help them navigate more safely.
Here are 5 practical, easy-to-implement, and completely free solutions to better guide kids through their digital lives.
1. Use built-in parental controls on your devices
It’s probably the most underrated option: nearly all modern computers, phones, and tablets already include built-in parental controls.
On Windows, Android, iOS, macOS… you can:
- create a child profile
- set usage time limits
- block certain websites or apps
- monitor activity without being intrusive
For example:
- On Android, install Google Family Link: it lets you manage everything from your own phone
- On iPhone/iPad, enable Screen Time to set limits and filter content
- On Windows, add a child account via Settings > Family
No need to be tech-savvy: these tools are made for parents, not IT pros.
2. Install a kid-friendly web browser
Instead of letting your children use Chrome or Safari freely, install a secure browser designed just for them.
It’s free, quick to set up, and makes a real difference.
Trois optioThree trusted options: ns fiables :
- Qwant Junior : French search engine, no ads, no tracking
- Kiddle : a filtered version of Google made for kids
- Google SafeSearch : an option to activate in Google Search settings
This is a great habit to introduce as soon as kids begin browsing independently, even at primary school age.
3. Filter content directly from your home router
There’s a simple, free, and powerful way to block inappropriate websites right at the source — without having to configure every device:
Set up filtering DNS directly on your internet router.
This allows you to automatically block violent, adult, or malicious content across your entire home network: computers, tablets, consoles, smart TVs…
And the best part? Anyone can do it, no technical skills required.
We’ve written step-by-step guides tailored to each router model:
- Install DNS4EU on a Freebox
- Install DNS4EU on a box SFR
- Install DNS4EU on a Bbox
- Install DNS4EU on a Livebox
DNS4EU is a free European DNS service supported by the EU, designed to ensure greater safety, privacy, and performance.
Changing your DNS is like setting up a global parental control filter for your Wi-Fi — without installing anything.
4. Really talk with your kids
Let’s be honest: no tool can replace communication.
You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to pass on the right habits, just start the conversation.
Simple rules to repeat often:
- Never share your real name, school, or home address
- Don’t reply to strangers online
- Tell your parents right away if something shocking appears on screen
You can also watch a short video together, or ask an open-ended question like: “So… do you know what an online scam looks like?”
5. Teach good habits… in a fun, simple way
Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be scary or complicated. With the right words and tools, you can start teaching kids how to stay safe online, and make it a shared moment.
Instead of scolding or silently watching over their shoulder, try:
- asking questions about real-life situations (“What would you do if someone messaged you in a game?”)
- discussing safe behaviors together
- or watching a short illustrated video with them to spark the conversation
At Ariovis, we believe that awareness comes through education and repetition, not fear.
That’s why we regularly share practical, age-appropriate tips on Instagram, designed for both kids and parents!
A smart move: follow @ariovis_officiel to get weekly insights on how to make the internet safer for the whole family.
In summary
Protecting your children online doesn’t require a big budget or technical skills.
With a bit of common sense, a few simple settings, and open conversation at home, you can already provide a much safer digital environment.