My middle schooler got a phone this week. Actually my old phone with a new SIM card and his own number. I really don’t know if it’s a good idea, but as any parent knows – the pressure is enormous (imagine the horror of being “the last one of his friends without a phone…”) and well, there is some merit (“I didn’t know you were waiting …) in equipping them with communication tools as they become more independent. It’s also the age where being explicit helps, so I drafted a contract my middle schooler and I agreed to and signed. I feel better. I don’t know how he feels, but I do know he got the message. And in this case, that’s good enough.

This phone is a responsibility that you have earned. It is your responsibility to care for this phone, keep it charged and use it responsibly with things you send and look at. You should never let someone else use your phone without your permission as anything that happens on this phone is your responsibility.
This phone is also a privilege. Your parents have the right to take it away at any time as a consequence.
When you are away from home, it is your responsibility to keep the phone accessible so we may reach you.
This phone has unlimited text and data in Luxembourg. If you are traveling outside of Lux, it is your responsibility to turn off cellular data and only use data on wifi. You may do limited texting and calling when outside Luxembourg.
You may only download apps after getting permission from your parents.
This phone is the property of your parents until such time as you are able to pay your own monthly bill.
Your parents may check your phone activity at any time. Your passcode of xxxx should never change. We expect that you treat people with the same kindness and respect on social media as you would in person.
If this phone is lost or stolen, it is your responsibility to purchase a replacement phone.