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From the Editors of Common Sense Media
November 30, 2006
For kids, cell phones give them both status and independence. But for parents, they can be a whole new set of worries: Who are kids sending text messages to -- and are they sending them during
math class? Just how high is their monthly bill going to be? They can download music to their phone? But what about the iPod I got her for her birthday!? Before you get your kids phones, here are a few things to consider:
Decide whether a cell phone makes sense. Before you sign a contract, determine whether you can afford the expense -- or if your kids can. And figure out just why your kids need them. Explain that you're not willing to plunk down a load of money just because "everyone else has one."
Find the right phone: And the right plan. Think about your needs and budget, and do your homework. Below is a list of the more popular phones available this season -- but "new" means more money. Phone features, family plans, and GPS tracking systems can make all the difference in price and quality.
Explain how expensive phones are. Tell your kids how many minutes they have, and make it clear that they'll have to pay for any overages.
Establish clear boundaries. If you don't tell your kids not to download music, expensive ring-tones, TV "mobisodes," or other accessory features, then don't be surprised when bills start showing up for these items. Anticipate all situations -- sports updates, Web searches, lots of calls to information -- and make it clear what is and isn't OK with you. Tell your kids the phone has to be off during class time (that includes no text messaging). Check your bills for a few months to see what time messages were sent.
Emphasize cell phone safety. Make sure your kids never give out their phone numbers to anyone they don't know well or attach a photograph of themselves to their profiles (some phones let users update their online profile from their phone). If your kids are of driving age, tell them they are absolutely not to drive and talk on the phone.
Use phones with courtesy. Some kids use their cell phones to humiliate or incriminate other kids, make prank phone calls, or take cruel pictures. Establish consequences for any behavior that harms someone else. Also, make sure your kids understand the importance of turning off phones (or at least ringers) in public places. Reiterate that private conversations shouldn't take place in public spaces (like buses, restaurants, elevators, etc.).
For a list of the new phones this season, visit the original article at: http://www.commonsensemedia.org/parent_tips/commonsense_view/index.php?id=182 .
(December 2006) (
