OTHER TOOLS

Text Messaging

Text Messaging Is Good for Kids Who Need Help With:

• Written expression (organization)
• Prioritizing events (time management)

What You Need to Know About Text Messaging:

Text messaging is a very popular form of cell phone communication. It is similar to AIM because abbreviations are used, but communication is usually slower and more precise in Text Messages. Text Messages do not anticipate ongoing communication, and in that aspect are similar to Emails. Text Messages are sent through the user's cell phone by spelling out words on the keypad. The cell phone's manual includes a step by step tutorial for Text Messaging use. Text Messages cost extra depending on the phone's service and plan. Some plans include free Text Messaging. Consult your cell phone company about different plans.

How Text Messaging Can Be Helpful for Your Child - Organization:

• Child can sort through the list of contacts to find the person he/she wishes to message
• Using text messages can help your child to organize plans or ideas
• Choosing to communicate through text messages helps your child to be efficient and concise with his thoughts
• Typing out thoughts helps the child organize his or her ideas clearly
• Child can use text messages to stay informed on school work and upcoming events

Talking Points:

• How do you send/receive a Text Message?
• Why does organizing your contacts make it easier to send messages quickly?
• What other things could you organize to make things easier?

How Text Messaging Can Be Helpful for Your Child - Time Management:

• Receiving a text message while doing another activity helps your child to prioritize
• Child can use text messages to make plans that fit into his schedule
• Child can text message peers to inform them of his/her arrival time to an event
• Child can send and receive text messages at times when talking aloud would be inappropriate

Talking Points:

• When do you use Text Messages?
• Why is it better to Text Message than talk out loud at times?
• How does using Text Messages help you make plans and stay informed about events?