Whether your child is getting the latest iPhone for Christmas or getting your old device there are a lot of things to consider before they excitedly open that box on Christmas morning.
Some of these include:
- How you want your child to use it – e.g. for texting or games but maybe no social media
- Where they can use it – e.g. in a common space at home, for the trip to school & ensure that it is charging overnight either in a parents bedroom or a kitchen.
- How long they are allowed to use it for – e.g. no technology after 8pm
- How you can monitor their use – e.g. Family sharing and child accounts set up, in-app purchases blocked and screentime limitations
- What actions will you take if they do something you don’t approve of – e.g. phone removed, internet limitations
- What will you and your child do if they receive something they don’t feel comfortable with – e.g. encourage them to talk to you openly, don’t overreact,
That list may seem daunting but it isn’t. In my opinion, it is better to be proactive than reactive. By taking the time between now and Christmas to think about this you will feel prepared and confident giving your child a new device – for some it may be their first phone.
It will be easier to set rules for those who are new owners while the conversation may be tougher if your child already owns a device. Introducing rules after they have already been using a phone or tablet could be more challenging however before they unwrap the phone on Christmas morning install some security features and have some discussions. For example:
- Set up Apple Family Sharing (click here to see how to do this) and then add a child account. This will give you control in terms of app downloads, in-app purchases, monitoring screen time and monitoring their use.
- Have an open discussion around phones being expensive
- They are expensive to use as well as if damaged or lost
- They aren’t toys
- It is your phone so don’t lend it to other people
- Use it respectfully and responsibly
- Discuss with your child that you, as a parent, will regularly check their phone. This isn’t because you don’t trust them but because you are aware of how others may misuse their devices and that you want to ensure your child is safe.
- Discuss the apps your child wants to download. Read up on them before you agree but please be aware of the age guidelines for each app. Don’t just agree because their friends use it.