I can still remember the decision to get Nick his own cell phone. It was a few years ago, but it is still very clear in my mind that our number one focus at the time was that he would use the phone safely and responsibly. Paul and I both had cell phones, smartphones in fact, for several years before that so we were comfortable and knew our way around the devices pretty well. Because of that fact, we were confident in our ability to guide Nick toward making smart decisions once he was privileged to have his mobile phone. Unfortunately, I don’t think this is always the case. With technology constantly changing many parents feel often overwhelmed with trying to keep up with the updates while also remaining diligent and mindful of their child’s cell phone activity. This is why I love that U.S Cellular has created a Parent/Child Agreement as well as Device Workshops to help families through this monumentous event.
As more children begin getting their first mobile phones, parents are challenged with ensuring their kids are using their phones responsibly, courteously and safely. To make this milestone easier on both parents and kids, U.S. Cellular has developed a Parent-Child Agreement that can guide the conversations parents and children have about cell phone usage.
The Parent-Child Agreement was developed in response to data from U.S. Cellular’s Better Moments online survey, which found that half of U.S. Cellular customers with children say their kids currently own mobile phones. In addition, while 91 percent of parents set mobile phone usage guidelines for their children, 63 percent indicated they would find it helpful to have an agreement to guide their ability to supervise children’s usage and behavior with mobile devices.
While the agreement includes suggestions on safety and etiquette, parents also have the opportunity to create their own guidelines that focus on creating Better Moments with their families. Examples may include watching videos together on YouTube or sending fun picture messages and video chatting while away on travel. The intention is to make the agreement work for each individual family.
I must say I love the idea of an agreement, or contract, between parents and their children where a mobile phone is concerned. I have personally explained to Nick on more than one occasion that a cell phone is a privilege and not a right. We have also discussed expectations, safety and responsiblity, but I think having an agreement in place can help to hold him more accountable. It’s also great because if he breaks the rules I can simply point to the agreement we both signed. I only wish I had thought of this type of document when he first got his phone because I have a feeling I will be met with a bit of resistance when I present it to him nearly 4 years after putting a cell phone into his hands.
U.S. Cellular’s Device Workshops go hand-in-hand with the Parent/Child Agreement as they are a wonderful way to get acquainted with all of the products and services U.S. Cellular has to offer. It’s also a place to get all of your questions answered, especially those related to a child’s first cell phone. It’s a major step for a family, so parents should take that step feeling as informed as possible! Did I mention the Device Workshops are totally FREE? Not only are they free, but there are several to choose from throughout the month of July. You can simply go to the U.S. Cellular Events page to find one in your area or call your local store to get more information. I had no idea U.S. Cellular offered this chance for families to get their questions answers surrounding their child’s first cell phone experience, but I did find that my local store here in Belfast, Maine is holding a workshop next week, so I may have to stop in and ask a few questions.
Have you attended a U.S. Cellular Device Workshop? Are you considering a new cell phone for your child? What questions would you ask an associate if you did attend one of these events?
Disclosure: I’m a compensated member of the U.S. Cellular Better Moments Blogger Brigade, but opinions are always my own and I’m looking forward to sharing more of their products and services with you.
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