Video: “Smart Rules” for Kids with Smartphones

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI)-The gifts under the tree are unwrapped, and if a cell phone for your child was one of those gifts, you may want to consider “smart rules” for your son or daughter’s “smartphone”.

According to cbsnews.com, parents should consider buying their kids a “dumb phone” first. Access to the internet won’t be at their fingers, and it allows kids to use their phone for the basics, texting and talking.

“I really don’t think young children should have smartphones just of their own,” explained Columbus resident, Penny Sockrell. “I’m not objecting to kids watching videos on YouTube or something if their parents are with them. ”

Before you hand over the device, consider making your kids sign a contract, outlining what they can and can’t do. Interim Police Chief, Captain Fred Shelton, says with cyber crimes becoming more and more popular, it’s important for parents to know what comes and goes on their child’s screen.

“Definitely get parental controls on the phone. You should examine your childs phone and put appropriate blocks on certain websites and locations,” Shelton said.

Also, keep tabs on your child’s phone usage and whereabouts. There are several apps parents can use to keep a watchful eye.

“There’s just too much out there that they can be exposed to,” Sockrell said.

It’s also a good idea for parents to set healthy limits on how long their child can use their phone.

Finally, lead by example. Don’t let your phone get in the way of parenting.