By Renee Ruffin-Price
For AL DIA TODAY
So that our grandchildren will know that the guidelines we have talked about regarding their use of cell phones, laptops, tablets, and the internet are a serious matter, we are using a family contract as a written tool that we will all sign. The cyberbullying.org website provides a free contract example that can be used for electronic devices. Below are a few of the topics noted within the contract: Child Expectations I understand that using electronic devices and the Internet is a privilege and not a right and that it is subject to the following rules: 1. I will not send hurtful, harassing, or threatening texts or inappropriate photos and videos, or make such posts on social media, gaming networks, or elsewhere online. 2. I will respect the privacy of others 3. I will not download anything without parental permission 4. I will never agree to meet an online friend in person without parental permission 5. I will not take or send a picture or video of someone else without their permission Parent Expectations 1. I will listen calmly. If my child comes to me with a problem related to online experiences, I promise not to get angry but to do my best to help my child resolve the situation. 2. I will set reasonable rules and expectations for Internet usage. I will establish appropriate consequences for lapses in judgment on the part of my child. 3. I will be reasonable with consequences for violations of this contract. This link will take you to the actual contract example: https://cyberbullying.org/technology-use-contract-2014.pdf
Article submitted on May 1, 2023, to Al Dia Today Newspaper for the May issue, by Renee’ Ruffin-Price, Community Advocate for Children