The 411 on cellphones
D o you have a cellphone? Do you want one? It’s true that a cellphone can help you stay in touch with your parents, and you can play games and watch movies and do other fun things on it. But most kids don’t really need one. Whether you have a cellphone now or will in the future, think about these tips for keeping your phone and yourself safe.
Handle with care
Cellphone screens can break pretty easily, and they’re expensive to fix. If you get a phone, make sure to keep it in a safe place, like your backpack, so it won’t get lost or broken. Also, make sure you know exactly what kind of service you have so you don’t accidentally run up your parents’ bill and make them take your phone away.
Know who you’re talking to
Your phone should be used to talk to your family and maybe your friends. Never talk to someone you don’t know well in real life. If you post pictures on social media, have your parents help you make them private so only people you know can see them.
Be nice
Sometimes when you’re not looking someone in the eye, it’s easier to say things you wouldn’t normally say. But that can be dangerous when you’re talking to someone over the phone or posting something from it. Before you post or speak, ask yourself if you would say it to the person if they were right next to you. If the answer is no, don’t do it. And if someone says something to you that you think is inappropriate, or sends pictures they shouldn’t be sending, tell an adult right away.