10 Guidelines for Children and Cell Phones

One of the top things kids are begging for these days are cell phones.  They will tell you that they need them and that everyone has one except for them.  Unlike many other parenting topics, you cannot think back to how your parent handled the situation when you were a kid because cell phones were not around yet. Regardless of how old your child is when you decide it is time to give them a cell phone, here are ten topics to address with them:

1. The Plan

   Discuss with your child what their cell phone plan entails.  Let them know how many minutes and text messages they have a month.  Determine consequences for running over.  One idea is to charge them for the price difference.  Also, be sure to make use of our handy Cell Phone Contract.

2. Picture/Video Messages

   Let your child know if picture and video messaging is part of your plan.  Tell them what is and isn’t appropriate.  Forbid behavior such as sexting and let them know how inappropriate pictures can spread and ruin reputations.

3. Downloads

   Set rules on downloads.  Require your kids to talk to you before downloading something.  Use your discretion.  There is no rating system for video games for cell phones.

4. Numbers to Avoid

   Give your child a list of relatives to call or text sparingly.  Also, warn them of incoming calls from unknown numbers who may be trying to get their information.

5. Driving and Cell Phones

   Be familiar with the state laws to know if a headset is a required for talking on the phone while driving and to know if texting while driving is illegal.  Make your own rules for using the cell phone while driving.

6. Cell Phone Etiquette

   Share with your child when it is not appropriate to use their cell phone.  Examples include, in school, at the movies, on dates, at the table, during tests, at appointments, etc.

7. Cyber Bullying

   Stop cyber bullying before it starts.  Discuss with your child how painful it is for the victim and how there is no escape from cyber bullying once it starts.

8. Internet Usage

   Tell your child if your phone plan covers internet usage or not. If it does, inform your child of any websites or applications you do not want them on.

9. The Limits of a Cell Phone

   Explain to your child, the limited message a text can send.  In text messaging, there is no way to display emotion or sarcasm.  They need to properly express the message they want to send.

10. Attachment

    Today, everyone has their cell phone attached to their ear or to their thumbs.  Warn your child of becoming dependent on their cell phone and of becoming so attached they miss what is happening in front of them.

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