Selecting the right computer for your child involves careful consideration and involve important items from procurement of the hardware, software setup and network changes.
Buying The Computer
Want to know the real reason computer prices are going crazy? Blame the AI gold rush. Tech giants like OpenAI, Microsoft, Meta, and others are gobbling up computer components. These companies are building massive data centres, which means they’re buying up every chip, RAM stick, and SSD they can get their hands on. The result? Regular folks like us are getting totally squeezed out of the new computer market.
But here’s the good news: This crazy market actually makes used computers look pretty amazing. Those Intel i5 and i7 processors from the past decade? They’re still total powerhouses for everything your kid needs to do. Web browsing, homework, and other basic apps, these machines are more than up to the task. You’ll get a solid machine that does everything you need, without paying the premium driven by AI’s insatiable appetite for computer parts.
Bonding Experience
I provided my son with a used laptop that I cleaned first (front, back, screen, keyboard, and even inside). After cleaning the inside with the back plate still off, I showed my son and he was facsinated. As a tech enthusiast, this was the perfect bonding item. I showed him some basic parts of the very computer he would use for school and learning.
Note: there are certain methods to cleaning a laptop and desktop without damaging parts like the fans with an air can (seriously, it can cause major problems). I suggest watching the appropriate video link that is applicable to you.
Peripherals
When setting up a computer for your child, don’t overlook the importance of peripherals. Take computer mice, for instance. That old gaming mouse might be perfect for your hands, but it could be way too big for a child. I learned this firsthand, I had a large mouse that worked great for me but was completely impractical for my kid. The solution? Picking up a smaller mouse that actually fits their hand comfortably.
Choosing an OS
The operating system is another critical consideration. While you could go with Mac or Linux, Windows is really the standard in most schools. As much as some of us might dislike Windows, it’s important that your child learns the system they’ll likely use in school and future work environments.
Now, Windows isn’t without its challenges. It’s become pretty aggressive with built-in advertisements, you’ll get pop-ups pushing OneDrive, Microsoft 365, and all sorts of other services. Personally, I’ve found a workaround with Windows 11 IoT, which is a stripped-down version without all the marketing noise. It’s clean, simple, and does exactly what you need.
A few key things to remember when setting up the computer:
– Always wipe the computer clean, even if it’s a new machine (new computers come with a ton of bloatware).
– Take time to remove pre-installed software and bloatware.
Child User Profile
Be sure to create a non-admin account for your child. This prevents most software from being installed without your permission and in some cases, it blocks malware from activating. Remember, don’t give your child the admin password! Here’s a breakdown of setting up a child-friendly, privacy-focused user account on Windows:
1. Open Windows Settings
2. Search for “User” or “Accounts”
3. Select “Other Users”
4. Choose “Add Account”
5. Create a local account (avoid Microsoft account to protect privacy)
6. Set a password that only parents know
Privacy Based Browser
When it comes to internet browsing, privacy is paramount. I recommend Brave browser for several critical reasons:
– No email required for bookmark syncing
– Uses a unique key chain for device synchronization
– Blocks ads and tracking by default
– Protects personal data
Privacy Based Search Engine
Why does a privacy based browser and privacy based search engine matter? I don’t want my child’s data being collected and sold. Some Google and Bing search engine alternatives that are privacy focused are:
– Starpage (Google-algorithm based)
– DuckDuckGo
– Brave Search
The core philosophy here is simple: minimize your child’s digital footprint. By carefully managing user accounts and choosing privacy-focused tools, you can create a safer, more controlled computing environment for your child.
Pro tip: Always supervise your child’s computer use, regardless of the technical safeguards you’ve put in place. My child uses his laptop in the kitchen only when me or my wife are floating around.
VPN
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) can add a layer of privacy, but they’re not a complete solution. Here’s a balanced perspective on VPN usage:
– Provides basic IP masking
– Does not guarantee complete online privacy
– Ineffective if you’re logged into accounts that track your activity
– Some school services (like Google Classroom) may block VPN connections
Key VPN Caution: Simply using a VPN doesn’t make you anonymous online. If you’re logged into Google, Facebook, or other services, those platforms still track your data regardless of VPN usage.
Free Office Suite
Instead of Google Suite or Microsoft 365, I recommend LibreOffice as a privacy-focused alternative to Google and Microsoft office suites:
Benefits of LibreOffice:
– Completely free
– Open-source
– No data collection
– No advertisements
– Compatible with Microsoft file formats
– Clean, familiar interface to Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.
The recommendation is to use LibreOffice Writer (Word equivalent) and LibreOffice Calc (Excel equivalent). I also suggest donating to the LibreOffice Foundation to support the project.
Anti-Malware
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to purchase expensive antivirus software. Microsoft Defender, built into Windows, is sufficient for most users. Getting a virus requires deliberately visiting suspicious websites, it’s not as easy as many people think.
The misconception that you need third-party antivirus is largely outdated. Modern operating systems have robust built-in protection. To get a virus that gets past Microsoft Defender, you would literally have to do something very risky or visit extremely suspicious websites.
The most important security measure is education. Teach your child basic internet safety rules: if you don’t recognize something, don’t click it. Be cautious about downloads, suspicious links, and unknown websites.
It’s also crucial to understand that the idea of Linux and macOS being completely virus-proof is false. These operating systems can absolutely get viruses, they’re just less targeted because they’re less common than Windows. Bad actors tend to focus on platforms with the largest user base, which means Windows remains the primary target.
The key is creating a balanced approach to online safety. Use built-in security tools, educate your child about potential risks, and maintain an open dialogue about internet usage. It’s not about creating fear, but about building smart, cautious digital habits.
Third-party antivirus software often does more harm than good. In my experience, programs like Norton are essentially malicious themselves, bombarding users with fake alerts and constant up-sells. Even Malwarebytes, which many consider a reputable option (and I used for a while), was found to be slow and bloated.
For most users, Windows Defender provides sufficient protection. There’s no need to spend money on additional antivirus software that potentially creates more problems than it solves.
Website Parental Controls
I use an Asus router with built-in parental control features. While the concept sounds good, the implementation isn’t perfect. The web filtering option allows blocking certain website categories, but I found the preset categories useless, it didn’t do anything.
If the router option doesn’t work like for me, you can buy software to install on the computer or software that works with your router to filter certain websites.
Talk About Internet Safety
The most crucial aspect of internet safety isn’t technical controls, it’s education. Sitting down with your child and having honest conversations about internet use is far more important than any software solution. Explain that computer access is a privilege, and it comes with responsibilities.
Key parenting advice:
– Use built-in router controls if available
– Supervise your child’s computer use
– Help them find educational and engaging online content
– Discuss internet safety openly and age-appropriately
– Explain that not all websites are safe or appropriate
– Set clear time limits and expectations
The goal isn’t to scare children, but to empower them. Show them the incredible learning opportunities online while also teaching them to be cautious and responsible digital citizens. Help them discover educational websites, math games, writing challenges, and other positive online experiences.
Most importantly, keep communication open. Make your child feel comfortable coming to you with questions or concerns about their online experiences. This approach is far more effective than any technical restriction.
