Keep Communication Lines Open on Mobile Safety

As parents, we want to convey the right messages about mobile safety so our kids understand the importance of behaving responsibly when using smartphones.

But these conversations can be tough. Did you know two out of five kids say their parents haven’t talked to them about mobile safety?

Sometimes kids don’t want “a lecture,’’ and sometimes parents feel they aren’t being heard. One option is to have a conversation with your child using the Family Guide to Mobile Safety, a free downloadable guide SchoolFamily.com developed in partnership with AT&T.

One strategy: Pick a quiet time over the weekend when no one feels rushed, sit down with your child, and use the information in the guide as key talking points.

Also, parents can check out the new Mobile Families resources on our site, where there is a collection of related articles about such important issues as screen time and how to best select and use technology and apps.

You can download the entire eight page Family Guide or download individual printables. The individual printables include:

• The Family Mobile Safety Agreement. Parents and kids can discuss appropriate mobile phone behavior, agree to follow the rules, and sign the document together.
• Is your child ready for a cell phone? A guide to help determine better when it makes sense to make this important purchase.
• How to behave online. This document gives parents talking points on what it means to be a good digital citizen.
• What’s with all the texting? This guide gives information about what kids should or should never text.
• Establishing ground rules. This document has pointers for parents on how to set rules for phone use.
• Apps: Where to start. This guide give suggestions so parents can make better app purchasing decisions.
• Cell phone checklist: Gives a list of steps on how to navigate the first mobile phone purchase.