Kid-friendly browser aims to make Internet safe for young users

Protecting your children can seem like a full-time job, especially when it comes to the internet.

A locally-based, kid-friendly web browser and email system called “Kids Email” is looking to make that job a little easier.

“Kids get stuff for like, Viagra, or spam mail and it’s like, how do you explain that to a child?”

While the Internet may be a problem, it’s also unavoidable. Psychologist Dr. John Landers said research shows more than 90 percent of children are exposed to pornography, unintentionally, when they get online; but not letting them use the Internet isn’t the answer.

“We as parents need to provide them access, but do it in a smart way and get up to speed with technology as much as our children are,” said Landers.

Mother of two and co-founder of Kids Email, Brittany Oler, found a way to have her Internet and use it too.

“There’s a lot of features so that your kids can use technology and as a parent, you don’t have to be worried about what’s coming in their inbox,” said Oler.

Numerous filters through the Kids Email browser prevent any unwanted images, words or links from reaching her kids.

“I’m very protective of my children and I don’t want them involved in social media or things like that, so they can still connect and I can monitor if I want to, and I feel like I’m being a good mom,” said Oler.

“You’re going to handicap them unnecessarily if you don’t give them that access,” said Landers.

Aside from the filters, the browser can also be programmed with time restrictions. It even has a “grounding” feature to block access if your child is grounded and not allowed online.

For more information, visit www.kidsemail.org