Recommendations for parents whose children possess smartphones:

• Help your child stay in control of their time, by allotting certain times when the device may be used. The line between use and abuse is very fine.
• Check for inappropriate apps. Sometimes they need to be removed professionally.
• Be sure that an appropriate Applocker is installed to lock down unwanted apps which are factory installed and difficult to remove. Keep in mind that unless installed professionally, even these apps can often be circumvented.
• Regularly inspect the device to see what is on it and how its being used.
• Check contacts.
• It is worthwhile when possible to insist that the device be left while charging in a place where parents can access it at will.
• Just because you don’t see any questionable apps on the screen doesn’t mean they don’t exist. Apps can be turned off or hidden.
• If your child is using internet on the device, make sure a reliable filter is installed. It is a price worthwhile to pay.
• Inspect the history from time to time. This alone is not reliable however, as it is possible to do private browsing.
• Consider installing monitoring software on the device as well, if a parent can’t do it, speak to your Rav or someone else trusted who is willing and capable of handling the responsibility.