iPod Touch & wifi - can you use parental controls?

[Trixiezzz]

My kids both want an ipod touch for Christmas. My only hesitation is that I have heard that they can connect to the internet through our wifi.

How exactly does this work? Is it regular browsing just like a computer? Can a filter on your PC also control what they're able to see?

We don't let them have a computer in their rooms (only in the open common area) so I don't want to get these things if it's the same as a computer.

Can anyone advise???

 

[dtr_angel]

It uses the same internet with its browser, called Safari, so you could access anything on Safari as you could on your computer at home. Wifi uses the internet connection, not the computer. If you have your internet access at your home password locked (through the router) then they could not connect without the password... but that doesn't stop them from picking up a neighbor's internet access, or free wifi at public locations.

I just looked at my settings on my ipod touch, and it looks like you can set restrictions for safari, the you tube app, itunes, installing apps, etc.

I don't have any of those set up, so hopefully someone else can help fill in the blanks.

 

[r&kmommy]

You can set restrictions - shut off/on: safari, youtube, itunes, installing apps (because some cost money) and location (you can set your ipod to tell certain apps where you are located, kind of like gps)... eta - you set a 4 digit code to open up the restrictions section of the 'settings' menu and that's where you can turn off and on the restricted features.

My son uses my ipod for some games and videos, and I have you tube locked, not because I don't trust my ds, but because one day he was watching some star wars lego short videos and he ended up watching some kid getting beaten up on the playground. (because of the "related videos" section)

Anyway, you can make the ipod secure for your kiddos, no worries

 

[MomToOne]

You can disable Safari, YouTube, iTunes and/or the ability installing apps and put a 4 digit passcode on the area you need to access to enable those again. (Settings > General > Restrictions > Enable Restrictions)

I have done this on my daughters, and so far so good. If she wants to install anything, she has to give the Touch to me, I unlock everything and install what it is she wants, then relock it.

Of course, this is only basic security - your child can always try to figure out the passcode. Since it's only a 4 digit code, a bit of time and determined trial and error and they can break it. They can also completely reset the Touch, which will remove the passcode (along with all content). A determined child WILL get access.

 

[hsmamato2]

welcome to parenting in 2010
if your kid has any computer gadget skills, you can't lock it out. prepare for your kids to be staring at their hand a LOT,and you won't know what's going on a lot of the time. The older your kids are,the more this will happen. you can try to lock it,but the point of the touch is the wi-fi. if you don't want you kids having that much access,get them some other handheld toy. I know from experience.
I am not a permissive person,my kids aren't running wild, it's just a fact of life. I am not a fan of kids/teens staring at and communicating with their hand
all the time-and I wouldn't recommend these gadgets unless you're ready for the hassle.
So,OP yes, they are a mini computer-they are intended for that use,and streamlined for that purpose.

 

[kalliyan1]

Mobicip.com. Go to that website and see if this is what you r looking for. We bought the app($4.99) and LOVE it!!!!! Works great

 

[geek]

Check out http://Opendsn.com. You can configure your router to filter web sites from any device inside your home. Both wii and touch offer parental controls, but they are very basic.

 

[KaiLovesTheMouse]

My 5 year old has an ipod touch. He wanted it for the games. That is all I will let him do with it. I disabled everything else.

I also took the time to talk to him about using it and time limits. Kids like boundaries and rules, even if they won't admit it.

I don't know how old your kids are, but tell them if they mess with the passcode or settings, you will know and iPod is gone.

If they really want to see something on the internet, they will find a way. The best defense is your communication and relationship with your children.