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The private sector is moving as well. Because of misuse (and not isolated incidents),
YMCA in USA is advising its hundreds of independent gyms nationwide to ban camera cell phones on premises. The YMCA of Australia has already done this.
7. Don't count on social norms. Be proactive.
Professor Thomas thinks social norms will develop, but personally I question that. If so, people would not be rude with cell phones already. If it comes, great. In meantime, educate your child on responsible cell phone, camera and computer use and model good behavior yourself.
8. Camera cell phones can be used for identity theft.
Teens need to be aware when paying by credit card. Anyone standing near you with a cell phone in their hand can take a picture of your credit card and get all vital information from it. 9. Establish rules with your child or teenager and enforce them.
Don’t allow your child to have a computer in their bedroom, teach them respect for others, and educate them in use of technology (just as you do bikes, microwaves, electric knives, gas grills, guns and cars). Go over what bullying is and make direct inquiries of your child. Here ( http://www.canoe.ca/NewsStand/LondonFreePress/News/2003/09/02/174030.html ) is a list of symptoms to watch for in both bullied and bully. It's considered preferred bullying method of girls, BTW.
10. Get informed and speak up.
One danger is that your child may know more about these tech toys than you do. Learn their capabilities and how to monitor. For instance, you can check on cheating and bullying by clicking into phone’s text messaging history. Teach your child to speak up when bullying occurs (and do so yourself at work). 85% of all bullying occurs when there is only a peer present.
Work with school officials re: your child. Ray Hughes, violence prevention co-ordinator with Thames Valley District School Board says a class or seat change can help bullied, and bullies need consistent, non-violent consequences for their actions both at home and at school.
Work to establish Emotional Intelligence programs at school and at work that teaches respect and "social norms". Social norms are made, not born.
©Susan Dunn, MA, The EQ Coach, http://www.susandunn.cc . Coaching, distance learning, and ebooks around emotional intelligence for your continued personal and professional development. I train and certify EQ coaches. Get in this field, dubbed “white hot” by the press, now, before it’s crowded, and offer your clients something of real value. Start tomorrow, no residence requirement. Mailto:sdunn@susandunn.cc for free ezine.
