Research indicates that children typically get their first phone between ages 10 and 13, with the average being approximately 11.6 years

You got a cell phone, now what?

Your Parents or your school gave you a laptop to use for schoolwork. Learn how to use it responsibly!

Your phone is more than a device used for emergencies, communications, entertainment or internet searches.

There is a lot more to learn about this device and how to use it safely and efficiently.

Your tablet and laptop or desktop holds a lot of information and useful tools that can help you navigate school and everyday activities efficiently.

Everything you do or upload on your phone or laptop stays on data forever.

 Learn how to use these devices responsibly and keep your private information secure.

  Emails, Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, YouTube, X, WhatsApp and many more applications could be used on your device.

Emails: When setting an email make sure not to use your personal information like your full first and last name. Get help from an adult to set up a secure email adress.

When creating passwords: make sure you have a secure strong password; avoid using your birthday or your social security #.

When chatting or texting or uploading please do not share your home address, social security # or your full birthday.

 Keep these things private and away from your accounts.

 Red Flags: Be aware!

Everything you share can be used or shared with others.

 Don't share nudes or personal pictures or videos you are not comfortable sharing.

 Friends or strangers can get a hold of these, and they can be used against you. Many times, leading to bullying or manipulation to your persona.

Accounts being used by others could be from others who may be adults and may be older than you. Be aware of people who use fake accounts.

 The use of AI is as good tool but not everything online is real.  Don't believe everything you see online unless it comes from a repudiable website or person.

Remember to take breaks and to limit the time you spend on these devices to give your brain and eyes a rest.