Phone Usage
As a caregiver, your focus should always be on the children in your care. While it can be tempting to check your phone throughout the day, it’s essential to minimize personal device use unless absolutely necessary. Staying present and engaged ensures the kids' safety and well-being while fostering meaningful interactions. This article will clarify expectations around phone use on the job and provide tips for managing it professionally.
Take a moment to watch the video below outlining our phone use policy while on the job, and be sure to scroll down afterward to check out the essential do's and don'ts of phone usage.
Phone Usage Video
Do's and Don'ts of Phone Use
Do's: | Don'ts: |
Do Use Your Phone for Emergencies: Always be available for urgent calls or texts from the parents or in case of an emergency. | Don’t Use Your Phone for Personal Social Media or Browsing: Avoid scrolling through social media, watching videos, or browsing the internet while on duty. |
Do Use Your Phone for Work-Related Tasks: If needed, use your phone to check important details like schedules, directions, or to communicate with the parents about the children. | Don’t Take Non-Essential Personal Calls or Texts: Refrain from engaging in personal conversations unless they are urgent or during your break. |
Do Take Photos/Videos with Permission: Capture moments for the parents, but only if you have their consent and it doesn't distract from your caregiving responsibilities. (Never share images from bookings on social media or with other individuals.) | Don’t Let Your Phone Distract You from the Children: Ensure that your attention remains on the children’s needs, safety, and activities at all times. |
Do Keep Your Phone Nearby (on Silent/Vibrate): Ensure your phone is accessible but not intrusive, so you can focus on the children. | Don’t Use Your Phone Around the Kids as a Habit: Set a good example by limiting phone use in front of the children to encourage their engagement in activities. |
Better Care
Being fully present and attentive to the children helps you form stronger bonds and provides better care. Children benefit from active engagement—whether that’s reading a book together, playing a game, or simply having a conversation. Limiting phone use ensures that you’re not missing out on important moments, signals, or needs.
Safety Concerns
Safety is also a major concern. Accidents can happen in an instant, and a moment of distraction could mean missing a potentially dangerous situation. Keeping your focus on the children allows you to respond to their needs and prevent accidents.
Personal Breaks and Downtime
Every caregiver needs a moment to recharge, and that can include checking your phone. Here’s how to incorporate phone use responsibly:
During Nap Time: Use this opportunity for a brief personal break to check your phone and attend to personal matters while ensuring the children are safe.
Self-Care: It’s okay to check in with loved ones during breaks, but ensure they are brief and it doesn’t affect your ability to care for the children.
Inform the Parents: Let the parents know about potential phone use during breaks so they are aware and can expect it as part of your routine.