Cell Phone Safety Tips for Kids

By: Colleen Easley

• Advise your child that they should only give out their cellular phone number to people you have approved.
• Let your child know that they should only answer or respond to calls from those people you have approved.
• If your child receives calls from anyone that makes them feel threatened or uncomfortable, make sure they let you know right away. Then take note of the call and contact the appropriate authorities if you feel it is necessary.
• Speak to your child about the appropriate times and places to use a cell phone, and when it's necessary to ask for permission. Also, if their cell phone has a vibrate mode, inform your child of when they should turn on the vibrate mode instead of the ringer.
• Speak to your child about keeping their cellular phone out of sight in public places - ideally, in a secure bag or pocket.
• Advise your child not to let any strangers use their phone, as a stranger may break it or try to steal it. But remind them that if the person becomes threatening, they should not resist handing it over, as their safety is much more important.
• If your child's cell phone is lost or stolen, you are responsible for the cost of its use until the theft is reported. So keep a record of the cellular phone number, plus the phone's make and model numbers and report any loss to your carrier and your local police as soon as possible.
• Let your child know their cell phone is not a toy and should be used responsibly at all times.