Monday, November 5, 2012

Tweens and Mobile Phones: Establishing the Rules

By Rick Bolander

Rick Bolander and Gabriel Venture Partners have helped to develop a wide range of communications and technology companies, including Kajeet, which offers parent-managed mobile phone plans designed to keep children and teens safe while providing access to the services they want. Rick Bolander and his staff use their in-depth industry knowledge to offer parents the following points to keep in mind when tweens and mobile phones meet:

1. Remember that a 12-year-old is less mobile and independent than an older teenager who likely has a car and a part-time job. Accordingly, patterns of mobile phone use differ at successive ages.

2. Ensure that your tween understands the importance of protecting personal information like home address, contact information, school location, and family financial data.

3. Discuss other safety rules, such as not making calls or sending texts when riding a bike or crossing a busy intersection.

4. Program your child’s phone to accept calls only from numbers authorized by you.

5. Consider enabling parental controls for costly applications such as ringtones and games.

6. Discuss the issue of cyberbullying and educate your child on what to do if he or she becomes a target.

7. Promote healthy, positive experiences by engaging in regular discussions with your tween about his or her use of mobile phones and other communications devices.

Learn more about Rick Bolander and his accomplishments at LinkedIn.com/In/RickBolander.

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