Being a parent you must be proud of your kids that they know more about handling technicalities of a smartphone than you do. So, you must be considering gifting your kid an iPhone very soon. But, make sure they can take the challenge of using a smartphone (iPhone or an Android phone) as the smartphone is another mobile computer. Hence, the risks kids are exposed to while using a computer could be involved in using a smartphone as well. Make sure, you are knowledgeable and have techniques in place to monitor their use including voice calls, text messages, e-mails, Internet browsing and apps they are downloading and using.
Smart parents can monitor & control children’s access to unrestricted access through smartphone
Smartphone give them limitless access to social networks, video uploading websites, instant messaging, other websites and ample of applications, let alone text messages and voice calls. With the capabilities of using all these, you child will do anything they do on their desktop or notebook, on their smartphones. Hence, it is necessary to be watchful and get a parental control software installed on the smartphone. Although your child is technical savvy to use latest apps, check and write on Facebook Wall, chat or surf Internet, but they are not emotionally mature to foresee the risks or consequences of having them exposed to unknown malicious users through text messages, calls or Internet.
Set written rules or agreement ensure they adhere to thoseÂ
Set explicit rules or a written agreement for your kids to follow for using smartphones. The agreement must be appropriate to their age and requirements. The agreement must include limitation on calling, texting and also set limits for long distance calls and sending text messages during class because your child’s school may confiscate the mobile phone if used against school regulations. Watch over if they make calls or send text messages at the midnight. You must make a point to check their smartphone usage for each day before going to bed.
Use the cell phone usage controls from your network carrier or else you can install cell phone monitoring tools offered by some websites. Also explain your children the importance of limiting cell phone usage at the dinner time, family gathering of when hosting family guests. One of the best ways children pick up lessons and importance of mobile phone etiquettes is by setting examples before them and constructive guidance without criticizing them for their inappropriate behavior.
