As your children grow and are away from you and from their home more often, the question of whether it is a good time to get them a cell phone will come up. There are important advantages to them having a cell phone, plus it allows you to contact them when necessary. Permitting them to have their own cell phone can also be an important safety tool.
When your child is age appropriate is only something you can decide. Once the decision is made, it is important to discuss with your child the difference between appropriate and inappropriate communication.
Caution your child about:
- The importance of knowing who is texting or calling them.
- Not to use the phone to talk to people they do not know.
- What to do if they receive an inappropriate call or text message.
Talk to them about the importance of informing you of inappropriate communication. Let them know that they will not be punished by losing the phone due to another person's bad behavior. This will help them feel confident about telling you in the event they do receive inappropriate communication.
Examples of Inappropriate Communication
- Messages from strangers.
- Adult messages asking them to meet with them alone.
- An acquaintance that sends them a mean, bullying type message.
- Any message that makes them feel uneasy.
- A request for suggestive pictures.
- Overly friendly and repetitive messages from teachers.
Alert them not to give out personal information, such as their home address. Teach them to think twice before hitting the "send" button. They can unintentionally become the bully if they are not careful about how they communicate with others.
Teaching your child that having a phone is a big responsibility can help them to use it in a way that is convenient and safe.
