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Parental Controls On Your Children’s Digital Devices

Justin Bieber is launching a new social media site for teens this week.

There are so many apps and programs that target your kids these days.

Amber Oates is a Tech Expert with Verizon Wireless.

She’s shared advice with us on how to track what children are doing on their digital devices.

 

 

 

 

 

Mobile Phone Contract Agreement

Dear ________________________________,

 

We are proud to be able to provide you with a smartphone that will serve primarily as a communication tool, enabling us to reach you at any time and for you to call us in the event you have an emergency, need us for any reason, or just want to say “Hi.” In addition, we are pleased to allow you to enjoy some of the entertainment functions of this device, within reason. However, with this phone comes our requirement of good judgment and respect – for this device, your family and your friends. In the event this phone is misused, please know that we reserve the right to take it away at any time. Enjoy it.  We love you.

Guidelines for use of this phone:

1. This phone is being loaned to you. It belongs to us; we bought it and pay the monthly bill.

2. We will always know your passwords.

3. We have the right to review everything: your texts, call log, social media postings, contacts, EVERYTHING. This is not a matter of privacy invasion, it’s a matter of safety.

4. Do not delete texts from friends before we see them.

5. Do not join ANY social media site without our approval.

6. Never ignore a call or text from “Mom” or “Dad.” When you don’t answer, we worry.

7. No phones during meals, whether at home or at a restaurant. This is family time.

8. Do not spend more than ________ minutes at a time playing games on your phone. You are allowed a total of ________ minutes of game time per day.

9. Your phone will be turned in to us and off limits at ____ p.m. every school night and at ________ on weekends.

10. Take care of this device. If it’s lost or damaged, you will be required to pay the replacement costs.

11. Don’t text or post anything you wouldn’t say in person. Be kind and don’t post messages when you’re mad. Think before you type.

12. The Internet is forever. Do not send or receive inappropriate pictures of yourself or anyone else. It is always a bad idea and could ruin your teenage/college/adult life.  A bad reputation is extremely difficult to overcome.

13. We love you and know this is a learning process. When you mess up, we will talk   about it. There will be consequences, but we will start over again. We’re in this together.

 

App Suggestions: Toddlers

 

 

 

 

 

 

App Suggestions: Tweens

 

 

 

 

 

App Suggestions: Teens

 

 

 

 

 

App Suggestions: Teenage Drivers