Thinking about getting your child a phone? A cell phone contract is something to consider.
Deciding whether to get your pre-teen or teenager a cell phone is a personal decision for each family. If you do decide to give a phone to your child, it’s recommended to discuss what are appropriate and inappropriate uses of the phone.
Some families use a cell phone “contract” or agreement, before giving a child/adolescent a phone. For those of you whose adolescents already have phones, it’s not too late to have these conversations!
Here is the cell phone contract I reviewed with my child who got their first phone this year. This example is very thorough – but consider creating a contract that works for your family.
Family Cell Phone Agreement
1. I understand that the rules below are for my safety. I understand that my parents want to give me freedom, while also giving me enough security to make smart choices.
Initial here: ______
2. I promise that my parents will always know my phone passwords. I understand that my parents have a right to look at my phone whenever there’s a need for them to do so, even without my permission.
Initial here: ______
3. I will put the phone away promptly at XX:XX pm every school night and every weekend night at XX:XX pm. I will get it back at XX:XX pm.
Initial here: ______
4. I will not send or receive nude photos. Ever! I understand that there could be serious legal consequences that could put mine and my parents’ future at-risk. I understand that even if the person says they won’t share the pictures I can never be sure.
Initial here: ______
5. I understand that my behavior on my phone can impact my future reputation – even in ways that I am unable to predict or see.
Initial here: ______
6. I promise I will tell my parents when I receive suspicious or alarming phone calls or text messages from people I don’t know or even people I do know. I will also tell my parents if I am being harassed by someone via my cell phone.
Initial here: ______
7. When I am old enough, I won’t text and drive. I understand it’s very dangerous.
Initial here: ______
8. I will make an effort to learn phone and internet etiquette. I understand this is an extension of normal manners. I will turn off, silence, or put my phone away in public – especially in a restaurant, at the movies, or while speaking to someone else. I am not a rude person. I will not allow the phone to change this important part of who I am.
Initial here: ______
9. I will NEVER use my phone or social media to bully or tease anyone, even if my friends think it’s funny.
Initial here: ______
I understand that this is NOT my phone and that it was paid for by my parents. Having this phone is not a right – it is a privilege that can be removed. As such, I agree to the above rules.
Signature: _______________________________________
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Annie Gray, LICSW
Behavioral Health Consultant
Westwood-Mansfield Pediatric Associates