As parents, we know all too well the damage kids can cause to electronics. Even if they manage to not break, destroy or try to make your devices fly, there’s no telling the sorts of stuff they can access on the web and in other applications.
With the amount of information and suggestive material available, it’s no surprise that many parents want to restrict their kids’ access to devices. Implementing parental controls is the first and most important step you can take.
We asked the experts at TD Curran of Grand Ridge Plaza to weigh in on what parents can do to protect their kids on Apple and Mac devices. TD Curran, which opened in 2014 in Issaquah Highlands, is an independent Apple specialist offering Mac computers and a full line of Apple products, including iPhones, iPads, iPods, peripherals and accessories.
According to TD Curran Store Manager Nicholas Markman, “The built-in parental controls of the Mac OS X operating system allow you to not only restrict access to the web, but also to certain applications. You can even limit the amount of time your children spend on their devices to certain times of the day and week.”
Parental controls include options to:
- Create a separate user account for every member of the family, so little ones won’t unwittingly delete your contacts
- Disable any built-in cameras so the kids can’t take a photo of you at 5 a.m.
- Apply time limits so a certain someone can’t play games for six hours
- Limit printer administration, so you remain a friend to trees
For a step-by-step guide, TD Curran details everything you need to know on the TD Curran blog.
If you’re having trouble setting up these controls, drop by TD Curran at Grand Ridge Plaza. They’re more than happy to assist parents with this important task. Unlike corporate Apple stores, at TD Curran there is no need to set up an appointment. Simply stop in and a specialist will lend you a hand.
Directions and Parking: From I-90, take Exit 18 and follow E Sunset Way/Highlands Drive toward Issaquah Highlands. Continue on Highlands Drive for about half a mile to arrive at Grand Ridge Plaza. The shopping center offers plenty of free parking. TD Curran is located between Bai Tong Thai Restaurant and Soma Intimates.
