Train, Don’t Hope: “Driver’s Ed for Phones” 👍
Below you’ll find practical resources for preparing your kid (or a kid you care about) to use technology wisely.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Instruction
- Rules
- Consequences
- Resources
Instruction
Have you had “the talk” with your kid yet? Not the one about the birds and the bees. The one about the snaps and the tweets.
1. Start with vulnerability.
Share a time you’ve used technology foolishly, the regret you have, and what it cost you.
2. Next, ask questions.
- What mistakes have you seen other people make with their phone?
- Do you understand whatever you post online can follow you?
- What should you do before you give out any information?
3. Lastly, give advice.
Share the THREE most important things you want your kid to understand.
Limit yourself to three. Begin by saying, “I want to share three, and I promise just three things that are important for you to understand.”
OPTIONAL: We created this funny video to help kickstart the conversation.
Rules
Clearly define what the rules are for tech usage. It’s essential these rules are clear, easy to understand, and in writing.
➡️ Download our editable rules and consequences.
Consequences
Clearly define what the consequences will be if (when) they break a rule.
➡️ Download our editable rules and consequences.
Resources
- Apple: Use Screen Time to set limits and get reports
- Android: Use Family Link to set limits and get reports
- All devices: Manage all Wi-Fi and mobile devices using CIRCLE or ST LABS
- Creative Solution: Get your kid a simple, old-school flip phone
- Creative Solution: This smartphone has limited features. No internet, no apps.
- Screentime Genie: Stanford’s customized screentime reduction tool
