Christmas is approaching and this year the question arises: Which toy should I give my child? We give tips for safe handling of dolls, cuddly toys and robots with an internet connection.

Connected toys – what is it? A plush toy that knows your best friend's nickname. A doll that answers. A remote control car that films. A dinosaur making up stories with a child. Toys are increasingly being equipped with microphones, cameras and artificial intelligence. It's a fascinating development, but when toys connected to the Internet , it poses massive children's privacy

This is an article from Saferinternet.at . The Austrian initiative Saferinternet.at primarily supports children, young people, parents and teachers in using digital media safely, competently and responsibly. Information and tips are offered on topics such as child protection, protection of privacy, cyber bullying, privacy in social networks, computer security and internet fraud.
Where do I buy connected toys? That's exactly the problem! Toys that are equipped with sensors, Bluetooth or an internet connection are found in toy stores next to all the other ordinary toys and are usually not immediately recognizable as such. Also There are still no labels. In order to recognize networked toys, it is therefore necessary careful research and prior knowledge.[mk_ad]

Connected? So what's the problem?

Given that elementary school children have their own cell phones, washing machines and light switches are connected to apps, this is a legitimate question. Why shouldn't toys be connected if it makes the gaming experience better?

That's right! Nevertheless, networked dolls, cuddly toys, robots, smartwatches or children's tablets can also represent a security gap for the children's room . Parents should definitely inform themselves about the toy before purchasing it and carefully check what data is recorded and how safe play can be guaranteed.

To do this, look online for product tests that deal with individual toys. Take recommendations and risks mentioned seriously! Steer clear of voice recognition toys , which often share data with third parties for marketing purposes. This also applies to toys that easy to hack . You can become a spy in the children's room.

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Take your time when purchasing new toys and be critical. When choosing suitable toys, appropriate product tests, reviews from other users and, last but not least, your own gut feeling are helpful, because no one knows your child better than you.

Tips for using connected toys

  • Inform yourself! Look closely at the toy. Does it have a WiFi connection, Bluetooth, a microphone or even a camera? Also pay attention to a possible expiry date of the associated app and that security updates are possible. All toys connected to the Internet are at risk of being misused.
  • Only pass on the most necessary data! Apps for toys can usually be installed before purchase. Take the time to check in advance what permissions the toy requires. Are they all really necessary? Be skeptical and only grant permissions that are absolutely necessary.
  • Explain to your child what they are playing with! “Look, it looks like a teddy bear, but it’s also a computer.” If toys use operating systems instead of batteries, your child should know that too. See it as an opportunity to familiarize your child with digital worlds in this way.
  • Agree on the rules of the game! Whether a remote control car with a camera is used in the child's room, in the living room or in the fresh air can make an important difference. Clarify in advance who, where and how a gift can and should be used. Agree on rules and make sure that your child can understand them!
  • Accompany your child! Toys with the Internet require a lot of skills. From commissioning to use, questions arise. Accompany your child so that the toy becomes a positive learning experience. Interactive toys are not a replacement for personal conversations and parental closeness.

Related Links

Article image toy: Shutterstock / By avtk


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