New year. New phones for kids. New help for parents.
After months of begging, you gave in and bought your child their first smartphone. Common
Sense Media says 42% of kids have a phone by the time they’re 10. By 14, that number is 91%.
Giving a child a phone opens them up to a whole new world – one they can connect with any
time, from anywhere. That can be a great thing, but every parent knows that also comes with a
big responsibility.
To help your child navigate their new independence and to give you some peace of mind, here
are five simple smartphone tips:
Start with the basics
Create an open dialogue with your child. Start by asking them what they already know and build
from there. Things like phone safety features and how to create an ICE (in case of emergency)
contact. This way, if they have an emergency, first responders will know who to call.
Set boundaries
Start good habits early. Having a few pre-determined and accepted rules for when and where
your child can be on their device is key. Consider a “no phone” dinner or “phone free” time to
create more family time.
Additionally, activating parental controls can help enforce screen time limits if rules are not
followed. On AT&T ScreenReady, you can create a personalized family media plan to help set
media priorities that matter most to your family.
Digital privacy & safety
You may want to opt out of things like location sharing on apps or allowing those apps to post to
social media sites. The same goes for video games. You can use a combination of tools like
privacy settings and flagging inappropriate content in your conversations about online behavior.
You can also turn on browser filters, which will block explicit images, videos, and websites.
Phone Etiquette
Appropriate use of a cell phone in today’s world requires responsibility and forethought like
never before. Have a conversation with your child about different scenarios that could
arise. For example, snapping and sharing photos at a swim meet, school (if allowed), or
alone with friends. Help them understand nuance and meaning.
Texting on Your Phone
Be respectful, both to the people you’re texting with and those around you.
Be careful. Assume that even private texts can become public.
Calling
Verify the caller. Don't respond to numbers you don't know.
Always answer the phone when it's a parent or caregiver.
Taking pictures and videos
Ask permission before you snap someone's picture, take a video, or share anything.
Inappropriate spaces include bathrooms and locker rooms.
Don't publicly embarrass people. Don't post someone's photo or video—especially an
unflattering one—without their permission.
Apps and downloads
Apps, games, music, and in-app upgrades can cost real money. Establish family rules
about purchases and downloads.
Posting
Think before you post. Be very choosy about what you post from your phone.
Be safe. Sharing private information and using location services can be risky.
Be a good role model
Research shows parents and caregivers play a powerful role in influencing kids’ tech use. So
that habit of checking our phone every 15 minutes (at least, let’s be honest) is being noticed and
learned as normal behavior. And then it is mimicked. Consider adopting a healthier media diet
for the new year.
It’s a balancing act between allowing a child enjoyment of their new, constant companion to
connectivity, while helping them understand its boundaries and potential risks. This includes
teaching responsible usage, emphasizing the importance of digital etiquette, setting clear
guidelines for device use, and encouraging offline activities to promote a well-rounded lifestyle
that prioritizes their overall well-being and development.