There is little doubt that giving a tween a cell phone is a good, safe choice for parents. Tweens are sometimes left alone after school until a parent gets off work, or a child could be in a situation where texting mom or dad is a quick way to communicate. However, there are basic rules of common courtesy when it comes to using texting. Teaching a tween the rules of etiquette is important.
Don't Be Rude to Others
Texting while talking to someone is considered rude. If one is having a face-to-face conversation with another individual, it is best to wait to use a cell phone until the conversation has ended. It is also better to wait to answer a ringing cell phone while talking, unless the person knows an important call is coming. Ask the child how she would feel if someone interrupted her conversation to answer a text message, and then she will know how important it is to pay attention to the conversation at hand.
Watch the Use of Slang Words
While it may be common practice to use slang words and abbreviations when texting amongst friends, it may not be a good idea with parents and other adults. Not only may the recipient not understand the message, but she may also be offended by the words she doesn't know the meaning of. The up side is that many cell phones have the capability of identifying words while they are being typed, so it is just as quick to type full words as slang.
Don't Use Texting in a Case of Emergency
Not everyone uses text messaging on a regular basis, so this may not be the best way to get in touch with someone during an emergency. In this case, it is important to make a phone call in lieu of using a text message.
Don't Use Texting as a Means of Avoidance
There are times when face-to-face communication should prevail over the use of texting. Texting should not be used as a screen when one is afraid to face an apology, tell someone bad news, or send condolences. There is a certain lack of sincerity when using text messaging. Talking to another person face-to-face in these situations builds character that every tween should develop, and helps build confidence as well.
Texting is a great tool when used properly and in the right scenario. Tweens find it fun to be able to "talk" to friends through this method of communication. Just be sure to teach a child to text correctly, and remember these rules of etiquette to make the experience that much better.
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