ConnectABILITY Homepage

Why is it Important to Have a Cell Phone

Often one of the biggest difficulties to someone becoming independent in their community is the worry about being safe. What if I get lost? What if I get hurt? What if the bus does not come? What if I am late? What if the community centre is closed when I get there? What if I can not find a pay phone to use? The “what if’s” do not need to stop you from going out and enjoying activities in your community.
A cell phone or a smart phone (Blackberry, iphone) is a tool that can give you independence while providing you with a safety net if you ever have a need for it. Phones come in all sorts of styles and colours, with a wide variety of programs including games, GPS (Global Positioning System) capability, and tools such as a calculator.
It is important to understand the particular safety issues that are of most concern to you. You should sit down with your parents and /or support worker to talk about what your worries are concerning taking the TTC or walking around in your neighbourhood. It is important to express your concerns and also to listen to the worries of others who are important to you. Once you have an understanding of the safety concerns, you can start looking at ways a cell phone can be used to address those worries. Here are some examples:

  • To have immediate access to someone to help, you should enter important phone numbers (parents, support workers, friends) into the address book of your phone. These numbers can be entered on speed dial so that you will be able to call them by holding down one button. If you have trouble reading, most phones allow you to add a picture so you can choose the right number for the person you wish to call.
  • You should give your phone number to the important people in your life. If they are worried about you or have to tell you something important right away, they can call you on your phone.
  • If you are late meeting someone and they have your phone number, they can call you to find out where you are. You can also phone them to let them know that you are going to be late.
  • If you are lost, you should call one of the important numbers you have put into your address book. This person can help you find your way home.
  • 911 is also a good number to put into your address book. By calling 911 you will be connected to the police, ambulance and fire services in your community. Remember that this number is to be only used in an emergency and when you are in real trouble or hurt.
  • If you do not know the directions to where you are going, most cell phones now have GPS (Global Positioning System) program which allows you to find out how to get to the place. The phone will give directions to where you are going. There often is an option to have the directions read out with a speech reader.
  • There are services built into some phones that allow a parent or support person to track the location of the phone such as “TELUS Kids Find”. If you are an adult, 18 years or older, the decision to use a service like this should not be taken lightly and should be based on a mutual agreement between the parent / support worker and yourself. However, once the decision is made to use a tracking service, it can provide reassurance to both the adult who is nervous about going out into the community by himself/herself and for the parent / support worker who is worried about the adult’s safety.

Cell phones today can be more than a safety device. Once you have determined how you want to use the cell phone for safety, think about other positive uses for your cell phone. Here are a few examples:

  • Most phones have calculators built right into the phone so you can determine whether you are getting the right change back from a purchase. The Money Magic Arcade game teaches how to make change with Canadian coins and how to use a calculator
  • Phones can also be a source of entertainment, especially when waiting for an appointment or when you are on a long car or bus trip. All cell phones have some free games that come with the phone. There are usually many more that can be purchased and downloaded for as little as $.99 per game.
  • All cell phones have a clock to tell the time.
  • Some phones allow you to download music and movies.
  • Some phones allow you to check the weather forecast for the city you are in, so you can make decisions about what to wear or the method of transit that is the safest to get you to where you need to go.

You will also need to decide how you are going to pay for the cell phone and service. There are various options available.

  • A term contract means it can not be changed for the length of the contract (e.g. a 2 or 3 year term). Each service provider has standard contracts that they offer. You need to pay close attention to what is and is not covered in the contract. Going over the limits covered for particular services or using services not included could cost a lot more money in addition to your monthly charges.
  • The “Pay as You Go” option allows you to have more control over the costs incurred each month. With this option, you put an amount of money on your account which gives you a certain number of minutes to talk. You will only be able to make calls as long as there is a positive balance of minutes on your account. You can purchase “Pay as You Go” cards in various amounts at many retail stores including convenience stores. You need to follow the instructions on the card to activate it and add the minutes to your account. Many service providers also have an option to automatically add money to your account each month using a credit card.

A cell phone can be a great way to give you more independence while addressing safety worries. There are a variety of features and programs you can get on a cell phone. It is important to understand the particular safety issues that are of most concern for you and the other purposes you want to use your cell phone for. Now you are ready to search for a phone that is right for you.

What Cell Phone is Right for You?


There are a lot of things to think about when you are trying to decide what cell phone will be good for you.

The first thing you must do is decide on the maximum amount of money you want to spend. Once the salesperson shows you the phones that are in your budget, you can begin to look at the features that you want and/or need.

Such features can be broken down into 2 categories.

  1. Software features (programs, user-friendly, etc.)
  2. Hardware details (buttons, shape, size, flip, screen, etc.)

Since everyone is different with unique needs and abilities, you can use this tip sheet to help you decide what features would be good for you. To keep the cost down, choose the 3-5 features the phone MUST have.

1. Software Features

Internet

  • E-mail
  • Facebook (to communicate with your friends/family).
  • Instant messaging (programs like msn or yahoo used to communicate with family/friends).

Camera (Pictures or Video)

  • Take pictures of things you want to remember.
  • Take pictures of things to show your family and friends.
  • Take pictures of signs, etc. to show someone so they can help you read and understand them.

Bluetooth

  • Transfer files from a computer or phone to your phone without plugging anything in.
  • Use your phone hands free.

USB charging

  • Charge your phone by plugging it into your computer instead of a plug on the wall.

Storage capacity (memory)

  • High capacity means you can store lots of pictures, video, music and files.

GSM( Global System for Mobile Communications) for overseas calling

  • Be able to make phone calls when you are out of the country.

Walkie-talkie

  • Talk to other friends who have the same feature on their phone by speaking into a speaker instead of holding the phone to your ear.

Speaker function

  • Listen to your voicemail through a speaker without holding the phone to your ear.
  • Listen and talk to someone during a call without holding the phone to your ear.

Radio/MP3s (sound files – songs)

  • Use headphones that plug into the phone to listen to MP3’s (your music), or the radio (the headphones act as the antenna).

Voice memo recorder

  • Record your voice – say things that you see or that you want to remember later.
  • Record someone else’s voice or a conversation with someone so that you can play it back later.
  • Record you or someone else giving instructions or directions so you can play it back over and over again when you are alone and it will help you complete a task – at home or in the community (e.g. the directions to the doctor’s office for your appointment).

Calendar

  • Enter important dates and events that you want to attend in your calendar.
  • Set reminders to complete tasks and your phone will alert you at whatever time you want.

Alarm

  • Set the alarm to help you wake up in the morning or from naps.
  • Set the alarm to help you with managing your time – give yourself a certain amount of time for an appointment, a task, etc…

Speed dial

  • Program important phone numbers in your phone so that you only have to hold down 1 button to call that person.

Games

  • Play games while you are waiting.
  • Play games that might help you work on skills you want to develop.
  • Play games while you are travelling on the public transit.

Hearing Aid compatibility

  • Allows use of a hearing aid without feedback.

TTY compatibility

  • A special device that lets people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired use the telephone to communicate by allowing them to type text messages.
  • A TTY is required at both ends of the conversation in order to communicate.

GPS enabled

  • See where you are on a map.
  • Get turn by turn directions.
  • Share your location with others using a service.

Text messaging

  • Send and receive messages.

Smart phone (Blackberry, iphone) Programs

  • Auto verbal – can speak for you.
  • Calculator.
  • Convert units.
  • Updates and information on the Weather, News, Sports, TTC, etc.

Voice Dial

  • Make a call by saying the name of the person you are calling into the phone – no need to press buttons.

2. Hardware

Size of the phone

  • How are you going to carry it? In your pockets, in your purse, in your knapsack? Will it fit?
  • Can you hold the phone in one hand?

Touch screen

  • To use the phone, buttons are on the screen.
  • There are no physical buttons to press down on.
  • They can be quite delicate; the screen is usually glass and could break easier than other screens.

Flip phone

  • The phone folds in half.
  • To answer or make a call, you have to “open” the phone.
  • Buttons cannot be pressed when the phone is “closed” and in your bag.
  • Sometimes, flip phones are smaller than other phone.
  • Usually more sturdy since the keys and screen are protected by the hard shell when it is closed.

Slider phone

  • To answer or make calls, you need to slide part of the phone up or down.
  • Certain buttons cannot be pressed when the phone is “closed”.

Keyboard

  • For text messaging or typing e-mails, there is a full keyboard like one you would see on a computer.
  • Usually easier to use than touch-screen keyboard.

Display/screen

  • How large does the screen need to be so you can see it properly?
  • Can you see better with certain colors displayed?
  • Can you change the size of the text to make it easier to read?

Buttons

  • Are the buttons big enough so you can press them without difficulty?
  • Are they too close together?
  • Think about your fingers and fine motor skills – do the buttons present a problem with this?

Shape

  • Make sure it is comfortable when holding the phone to your ear.
  • Make sure you get a good grip on the phone with one hand.
  • Do you need/want to make sure you can press the buttons while holding the phone in one hand?
  • Think again about where you will be keeping your phone while you are out in the community – does it fit comfortably in your pocket?

Headset

  • Plug in a headset so you can talk on the phone without holding it.
  • The headset might go in your ear or sit around your ear, or it might be like headphones.
  • Some headsets have cords and others are wireless and use Bluetooth technology.

Ringtones

  • Make sure the phone rings loud enough so that you can hear it.
  • Choose from different ringing options available in the phone.

Cases

  • Keeping your phone in a case will protect your phone and it will last longer.
  • What cases are available for this phone?
  • Do you need one that has a belt loop so you can keep it on your pants or belt?

Why I got a Cell Phone and How it Helps Me

Cell Phone context story

My name is Phyllis and I would like to tell you about why I got a cell phone and how it helps me.

A long time ago I was living at home with my mom and dad, and I was taking the bus to the day program. I got turned around at the subway and couldn’t find my way. I was lost! A nice lady finally noticed that I was upset and helped me to find the right bus. I had been so scared.

When I got home, I told my brother about it and he talked to my mom about getting a cell phone. It was close to Christmas and when Christmas arrived, there was a special gift for me under the tree… a brand new cell phone! My brother had helped my mom purchase the cell phone, and together they had decided which service provider to go with.

I practiced using the cell phone, as I can copy numbers and was able to call the day program, my brother or his wife, or my mom and dad! Especially if I got lost! I always carry my phone book with me.

One day my cell phone broke, and my brother contacted the service provider and they sent me another phone in the mail to replace it. We had a contract with them, so this was covered and we didn’t have to pay for the new phone! I had that phone for a while, but then my mom said it was just costing too much money. I was upset because what would I do if I got lost again? At this time, both my parents had passed away and I was living on my own.

One day when we were at a retail store, my sister-in-law suggested we check out the prices of plans there. The sales person tried to sell me and my brother all kinds of silly gadgets like, head phones, car chargers and cases. My brother helped me a lot because if I had been by myself I don’t know what I would have ended up buying! We decided on the pay as you go plan, which means that because I don’t use it all the time, I add money when it runs out. My brother and sister-in-law help me with this.

It is important to have a cell phone because if you are going to be late, not feeling safe when on the bus or if you get lost then you are able to let people know where you are. I also used it one day when I fell. I was able to get a hold of my brother and I was able to get help.

I am using it a lot right now because my home phone is not working. I can at least call my brother, sister-in-law, or my support people with my cell phone and let them know so they can call to get my home phone working.

Online Gaming


Internet or online gaming is becoming a common activity, especially with young adults. They can be played on your computer, on a portable device such as an Ipod, or using a gaming consol such as a Playstation or X-Box. Online gaming can refer to many types of interactions online including:

Board Games/Puzzles:

These usually involve playing alone, against a pre-programmed computer opponent, or against real people via the internet. They are animated versions of traditional and favorite board games or puzzles.

Gambling/Casio:

Casino sites are typically for adults only (ages 18 or older). Most offer free games that allow you to practice various games that you would find at a real Casino (i.e. Roulette, Black Jack, Poker). They usually offer players a chance to bet real money by using a credit card.

(Standard) Video Games:

Video games typically include sports, action/adventure, simulators (i.e. flight simulators, driving games), and shooting games. These games typically tell a story or involve an objective that the player is trying to achieve. Video games vary in content from stories that appeal to all ages, to adult content not suitable for children. Many of these games can be played alone, against a computer opponent, or against actual people via the internet.

Role Playing/Multiplayer:

Multiplayer games are a more intricate form of video game, involving an entire virtual “universe” created around many different games to be played within a specific environment. Some multiplayer games are based in fantasy, such as science fiction or “dungeons and dragons” types of environments; others are based upon real life. Whether it is a beach or a space station, these games allow people to pretend they are interacting in environments that they normally would be unable to spend time in. They also allow the player to create a character that is unique and personalized.

Positive outcomes of Online Gaming:

Communication:

Most online gaming that involves playing with other people, also involves communication. Most games involve a way to “chat” with one another by sending written information back and forth – similar to having a written conversation with someone. Communication can also include using a headset. A headset allows you to physically talk to someone while you play, and hear what they have to say as well.

Social:

Online gaming provides an opportunity for people to socialize. People can interact and meet new people. For example, you can play checkers and “chat” with someone who lives in an entirely different country than you – all from the comfort of your living room.

Challenge:

Many games offer challenges and objectives for you to overcome. They make you think in different ways, and challenge the player to play the game more accurately.

Fun and Excitement:

This is the primary purpose of video games and multiplayer games. They allow you to pretend you are a different person, and pretend you are in new and exciting places, and in unique situations.

Safety Tips for Online Gaming:

Online gaming can be a fun hobby. Playing against other people can be an exciting experience, yet like any other online resource, there are some things you need to remember to ensure your safety.

One of the best ways to stay safe is to maintain an ongoing open dialogue about what you are doing on the internet with someone you trust. This could be a parent, a staff, a friend or a volunteer. Someone else may be able to point out safety concerns that you did not think of or were not aware of. Talk about where you are going on the internet – the websites, the chat rooms, the game sites that you are going to, the people you are chatting with and the types of conversations you are having.

Here are some other tips that will help ensure you are being safe while gaming:

  • NEVER give your credit card number out to an unknown website or service. Many gaming services require payment – only provide this information if you know that you have the money to pay for their service, and that you are giving it to the correct company
  • Recurring payments – it is common for multiplayer games to require a recurring payment that YOU are responsible for cancelling. Make sure that if you are not going to be playing the game that you cancel your subscription.
  • Many video games have content geared toward a mature audience. Like movies, videogames follow a rating system that will help you choose the content you are looking for.
  • The people you chat with and play games with are still strangers. Don’t share personal information with them no matter what they say.
  • A person’s virtual character (a character they have created to use in the game) is not going to be indicative towards who that person is. Don’t assume that a female character in a game is played by a woman, or a male character is a man.
  • Be respectful – your actions are usually monitored when playing a game online. You can be easily identified and if your actions are serious enough, you can be charged by local authorities for obscene behaviour (i.e. threats, harassment)
  • If you are being harassed, learn how to block these people. Report any harassment to a family member or someone who can help you report the harassment to the appropriate person.
  • For some people online gaming can become an addiction. If you are playing more than a few hours a day, and playing every single day you might be heading towards something that is dangerous for you. Now would be a good time to talk to that person you trust. Together you should be able to plan out how you can continue to have fun with online gaming but make sure it is not getting out of control.
  • Take a ten minute break every hour to stretch your legs and clear your mind.

Caregiver / Professional tip:

  • If you see that the individual is spending too much time in the gaming or virtual life, talk to him/her about real vs. imaginary life. To make the difference between the two more concrete, use real situations in the individual’s life. The goal would be to create a plan that includes expanding real life experiences and putting some limits on time spent online.

My Cell Phone Saved My Life

Cell Phone context story

My name is Kirk. I am 35 years old and I want to tell you my story about how I first got a cell and why. I also want to tell you how it has helped me in two very dangerous situations.

When I went to the assessment program, which was run through Community Living Toronto, I learned how to take many different TTC routes. My dad was a little concerned about that, as he thought about the dangers on the streets and the possibility of getting lost.

That was when we sat down and talked about getting a cell phone. He had one through work. We went together and we purchased my first cell phone. I only needed this phone for emergencies so we got a basic phone and plan. My dad and my brother practised with me on dialing key numbers like the day program, my dad’s work and cell number and my brother’s numbers. You see, I can’t read or write, but I can copy. My brother and father drew pictures that represented the people so I knew what number went with whom. We made up q-cards with these numbers with pictures on them and put them in a book. I was able to carry this around in case I needed them.

One day in the winter, during a storm, I was on my way to the day program. I got on the wrong bus and when I got off the bus, I sunk deeply into a snow bank. I was stuck, couldn’t get out, and I didn’t know where I was. I thought of my cell phone. I called my staff at the day program. I told her that I didn’t know where I was, but I was stuck in a snow bank. I told her that I had taken a bus at the Islington subway, but it had gone a different way than the day program. She didn’t know where I was. Another staff at the day program contacted the police as well as the cell phone provider. Staff were driving around bus routes looking for me. The phone provider was able to track my basic location and the police officer came, got me and brought me back to the day program. You see, having a cell phone saved my life! City Pulse news heard about what happened and I told them my story!

Another time I again took the wrong bus and contacted my dad. He asked me what I saw, but nothing sounded familiar to him. He asked me if there was a gas station or store around. There was a store and while I continued to talk to him on the phone, I went there. I asked the person who worked at the store to speak to my dad. My dad was able to come and get me.

I always carry my cell phone and have learned that my dad and my support people at my apartment don’t worry so much any more because they know that I will call them if I get into trouble. My dad says that my having a cell phone gives him such Peace of Mind! I let them know when I go downtown, bowling, go to the movies, dances at the workshop or to the Queensway Cathedral.

My dad, brother and I still use the same phone provider and now we can talk for free because we have a plan that allows this. We are on the Fab Five plan. I don’t carry my book with q-cards anymore, but tucked in my wallet with my Metro Pass are all the numbers that I need!

John’s Financial Issues

Cell Phone context Story


My name is John. I am 47 years old and I would like to tell you about the financial trouble that I got into as a result of having a cell phone.

My girlfriend at the time decided one Christmas to purchase two cell phones, one for her and one for me. Both phones were in her name. It was on the Family Plan. We were tired of not being able to talk to each other during the day. She arranged it so that the bill would come to her house and I would give her the money, for my part of the bill.

We were so happy, because now we could talk to each other when we were out in the community!

As time went on, my girlfriend didn’t want to pay for her part of the bill and I kept getting a higher and higher portion. I didn’t want to argue with her, so I kept quiet not realizing that the bill was getting higher and higher. I had never been told about interest charges.

One day my support worker came to me and said that he had received a call from the provider saying that my bill was over $1000.00 and that it needed to be paid right away! I didn’t have that money, and my girlfriend didn’t either. Both my girlfriend and I were on a disability pension which does not provide a lot of money. Both of our families had to get involved. This made everyone really angry.

My girlfriend and I split up as a result of this. I was very angry at her for a long time. I ended up paying, with my family’s help, my portion of the bill. For a long time I wasn’t able to go on day trips with my friends or buy new things.

My advice to anyone who is getting a cell phone is to take someone with you who can understand how much it is going to cost you. Never buy a cell phone for someone unless you have talked to them about the amount it will cost them.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Staying Safe on the Internet

The internet is a very useful tool to help us find information, music, games, meet people and talk to friends. There are many tools available that can equalize communication for a person with a disability. These include speech readers, intelligent word programs that will provide words and phases to choose from once you begin to type, voice mail and free VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) telephone services such as Skype. When communicating over the internet you can not see what the person looks like and therefore there are no pre-conceived opinions about you based on visible disabilities or visual attributes.

However, there are dangers that you need to be aware of

We feel safe on the internet and believe that the websites we go to and what we post on the sites or in e-mail is private, but it is not. Everything we type or post is for public viewing and anyone can see it. E-mails addressed to one person can be forwarded to others. We do not know who is going to see them and this could include nice people as well as those who want to harm us or do something illegal.

One of the best ways to stay safe is to maintain an ongoing open dialogue about what you are doing on the internet with someone you trust. This could be a parent, other family member, a staff, a friend or a volunteer. Someone else may be able to point out safety concerns that you did not think of or were not aware of. Talk about where you are going on the internet – the websites, the chat rooms, the game sites that you are going to, the people you are chatting with and the types of conversations you are having.

It is good also to talk about how much time you spend on the computer. Online chats and online gaming can be very addictive. Without realizing it, you may be spending so much time online that it is causing you great harm personally and /or financially. It is important to get away from the virtual world and make real connections with friends, family and real people. Set daily limits on the amount of time you are spending on the computer, for example one hour per day.

Inviting this trusted person to be a friend on your facebook page or other social media sites where you are a member will give this person a better chance to catch things that could put you in danger.

It is a good idea to have the computer in a public place such as a family room, living room or kitchen rather than in a private place such as your bedroom. When the computer is in view of others, there is a better chance that when you are unaware of danger it will be noticed by others and brought to your attention.

Here are some important tips that you should follow to make sure that you are as safe as possible.

Protect your real identity.

The information you provide online can be used by others to identify where you live, what you look like, when you will be away from your home, places and times where you are likely to be found, personal identity information like health card numbers and banking information.

  • Never give out your real name, age, address, phone number or any other information (including passwords) to a stranger online.
  • Only give out personal information such as Social Insurance Numbers or banking information on a reputable secure site. Legitimate companies such as banks will not send you emails and ask you to reply with personal information. If you are a customer of the bank, they already have your information and will get in touch with you by phone or land mail. If you are not sure whether the request is real, find the bank’s phone number in the phone book (or on their website) and give them a call. Explain what you received and ask them whether they sent the email.
  • Don’t send a photo of yourself online.
  • Do not use a webcam if you have never physically met the person. If you have met the person, then you both know what each other looks like.
  • On chats and other social media use a nickname that does not identify you. Do not use something like “CindyfromOttawa”. Instead use something neutral like “musicfan”.
  • Never share your account password.
  • Never save your password on a public computer. If you do so, then other people will have access to your information and your accounts.

Remember that everything that you read online may not be true.

Someone you meet online is not a “friend”. You really do not know anything about this person. They may have lied about who they are. Much of what you read is someone’s opinion (whether it is in a chat, a blog or an email). It is not fact. People can write whatever they want and there is no way to check that what they are saying is really true.

If you have physically met someone in person before talking to the person online, there is an element of safety, although there still could be danger. However, if you are meeting the person online first, then you need to be very cautious about what you say and agree to do.

  • Some people will pretend to be someone else so that they can trick you into doing something that may cause you harm.
  • If you think that you may have been tricked or cheated, don’t keep it secret. Talk to someone you trust about it. They will be able to help you.
  • If an offer seems “too good to be true” it likely is. Ask someone you trust about it.
  • It is always good to get a second opinion about any offer online before you go ahead. They may think of something that you have overlooked.
  • Do not go to meet someone you have met online that you know very little about.
  • If you do decide to meet someone you have become friends with online, meet in a public place, make sure that you do not go alone and let other people know where you are going.

Never post anything that would cause you embarrassment or shame.

As a basic rule, you should not put anything onto websites or the internet that you would not show or say to anyone in a public place like a store, a bus or a coffee shop.

  • The internet is very public and once you have posted a comment, photo or video, it cannot be erased or taken back. As an example, anything that you put on your Facebook page is owned by Facebook and stays on Facebook even if you remove it.
  • Websites make the decision on what to do with the information and this could include sharing or selling the information with other companies or websites as a means to make money.
  • You cannot control how many times it is copied and it may be used against you. An embarrassing picture could show up in public many years after you posted it on the internet.

Always be courteous online.

The same rules of relating to others that apply in real life apply online. As a basic rule, you should treat people, whether online or offline, as you yourself would like to be treated by others.

  • Don’t send e-mails that may hurt others or are against the law.
  • Don’t be rude or use abusive language in chats or e-mails.
  • Don’t send emails when you are angry. Rather then send the email right away, save it as a draft and re-read it the next day before you send it. Once you have calmed down and thought about it, you will often change the email prior to sending it or not send it at all.

Protect Your Computer System.

There are many people who spend a lot of time and effort to create programs that allow them to get control over your computer or to damage your computer without you knowing it. If they can get control over your computer, they can use it to do illegal and or damaging things and we do not have any visible connection back to them. They can also spy on you and be able to tell which websites you are going to and what you are doing there. Often, this information is used to be able to make money by selling it to other companies.

  • Shut down your computer when it is not in use, especially in public places.
  • Keep your antivirus and antispyware programs, other software and operating systems updated.

Tip for Caregiver / Staff

If you are concerned about the safety of a family member or individual that you support as a result of what information they are providing online, arrange to have access to their information. For example, sign up for Facebook and have yourself be added as a “friend” to their profile. You would be able to view what information they are providing and discuss any safety concerns with them.

Useful websites

There are a number of useful sites that provide more details on protecting yourself and staying safe on the internet. Here are a few:

Email and Online Communication

Keeping everyone connected and up to date on an ongoing basis is always a difficult task.

Technology makes it easier to do so. There are a number of online tools available that can be used on computers, cell phones and other portable devices.

E-mail

E-mail has become one of today’s standard means of communicating electronically. E-mail is a typed message that is sent from a computer, a phone or other mobile device. Documents, letters, pictures and other electronic items can be attached to the message and sent along with the message. When replying to the message, the original message is sent with the reply. In this way, a history of your communications is maintained for easy recall.

However, you need to be cautious about what words you use in e-mail. The receiver does not have the benefit of seeing the nonverbal cues (body language) or hearing the tone of voice of the sender in order to interpret the meaning of the words. Written words by themselves can take on unintended meanings.

Also, attachments can carry viruses that can be a nuisance or damage your computer. Attachments containing the words “.exe “often contain viruses. As a general rule, if you do not know the sender of the email, do not open attachments and delete the e-mail.

Electronic junk mail or “spam” can be a nuisance. You are able to block e-mails from addresses that you choose. You can also create rules that will block all e-mails that adhere to that rule, e.g. Block any email with “bulk” in the subject.

Instant Messaging

Instant Messaging (IM) allows you to have a live online text conversation with someone, as long as you are both online. It is particularly useful for quick conversations such as asking a question or to let someone know what you are doing.

You can keep a list of people you most commonly interact with and you will be able to tell when they are online.

You type your messages to each other into a small window that shows up on both of your screens. Most Instant Messaging programs also allow you to create a chat room with your friends.

Online chat

Online chat is a way of communicating by sending text messages to people in the same chat-room in real time. Generally speaking, the ability to converse with multiple people in the same conversation differentiates the online chat from instant messaging (usually one-to-one communication).

Users in a chat room are generally connected by a shared interest or other shared connections.
There are chat rooms for all sorts of different topics. You need to be aware that topics and conversations may contain mature, sexual or offensive content. Some chat rooms are monitored so that offensive material is removed, but this is not always the case.

Texting

Text messaging, also know as “texting”, is the exchange of short, typed messages between cell phones and other portable devices. In order to quickly type and send messages a short hand language has developed, such as “?4U” to mean “I have a question for you” .

There is a charge to send a text message. Some phone plans may not include texting, may include only a limited number of texts per month or may charge for texts sent to you from someone else. Charges for texts not included in your plan can add a sizable amount to your monthly costs of the phone. It is very important to determine exactly what is included in your phone plan. If you are planning to use texting a lot it is generally better to go for a plan that includes unlimited texting.

Texting can be a very good way for parents/support workers to stay in touch with your family member.

Skype

Skype is an internet service provider that offers free calling (both local and long distance) between subscribers. In addition to standard telephone calls, Skype enables file transfers, texting, video chat and videoconferencing. It is a great way to have a meeting or speak to friends and relatives in another country.

On a desktop computer, you can use the system’s speakers and a microphone or plug in a headset, or use a regular phone. You add contacts similarly to the way you do for instant messaging and then, to make a call, just click the icon next to the contact.

Remember that anytime you are using video, not only can the other person hear you, but they can also see you so, make sure that you are appropriately clothed.

These are important tools for families and support workers

These are all good ways to keep in contact with family members, friends and employers and they make it possible for us to share information quickly. For example, staff can send messages directly to an individual to remind them of the time and address of an important job interview or individuals can contact their family when they arrive safely at a destination.

Here are some tips to help you to easily use and be safe while communicating online:

  • Set up contact lists which include all of the email addresses you will use most often. If you have difficulty reading, you may be able to put a photograph of the person beside their name so you can identify the person you want to talk to.
  • Make sure that there are no errors in your email address or in the email address that you are sending it to. The message can not be delivered if the address is not correct.
  • Always include a subject in the subject line of your email. This can be found at the top of the email below the email address of the person you are sending it to. This tells the recipients of your email that it isn’t junk mail and they won’t delete it by mistake.
  • Watch your language in your email. Do not be rude or gossip. The internet is very public and once you have posted a comment, photo or video, it cannot be erased or taken back.
  • Always read your email before you send it.
  • Never send an email when you are angry or upset because you may say something that you will regret later. Wait until you have had a chance to calm down and think about the situation.
  • Do not send inappropriate pictures.
  • Delete any emails that you receive that contain unfamiliar names or spam (electronic junk mail) right away. This will help to avoid attacks by viruses.
  • Be aware of who you are sending attachments to and who is going to receive them. A PDF (Portable Document Format) is a safe attachment to send or receive.
  • If you are not sure who sent you an attachment, don’t open it or you could get a virus.

Tip for caregivers and staff:

  • Filters can be used not only to control a user’s access to chat rooms but also to control the sending and receiving of emails to specific parties.

Safety Tips When Using a Cell Phone

Cell phones are a great tool for ensuring personal safety, but ownership of a cell phone also requires responsibility. Being careless with your phone can result in financial difficulties, and in some cases actually jeopardize personal safety. The following are tips to educate individuals in order to minimize the risks associated with cell phone use:

Never give out your cell phone number to strangers or companies

  • Don’t give out your number to a stranger. They might not be trustworthy.
  • Never give your cell phone number to a new company – it might be used for sales/telemarketing purposes that you did not agree to

Not every call is important

  • It is sometimes considered to be rude when answering your phone in a public place. At times, it can annoy people to the point where a confrontation occurs. Remember that before you had a cell phone people would leave you messages at home and you would return their call. It’s okay to wait until you are in an appropriate place to call someone back.

Be aware of the details when signing up for features.

  • Sales people will often not focus on all of the conditions and costs of the phone, service and features. Make sure that you read all of the details and clarify the real costs and limitations before making a decision. Otherwise, you may be shocked at the cost when you get your first bill.
  • Service providers will often give a feature free for a short period of time. Once the free period has expired you must cancel the feature or it will continue and you will be charged for it on your bill.
  • Getting into a cell phone contract is a legally binding contract. Once you have signed the contract you are responsible for all the costs and conditions included in it.

Use your phone in appropriate places

  • Unless you are lost or concerned about your safety, it is rude to chat on the phone in places where it is not typical to have a telephone such as on the bus, in a store, church, library, Doctor’s office and especially in a movie theatre.
  • If you are somewhere quiet (e.g. library), do not answer your phone.
  • It’s not safe to have personal conversations in public – you don’t know the people who might be listening.

Text messaging

  • Using this feature can cost you a lot of money if you do not have a plan!
  • Never answer texts from unknown numbers – these can be scams that add additional costs to your cell phone bill. For example, a fake lottery asking trivia questions. By answering the questions you also provide your personal information such as a telephone number. This information is then included on lists and sent to other people who are trying to cheat you. Each time a text is sent to your number you are charged.
  • Sending pictures or attachments costs money – if you do not have an unlimited plan, use this feature sparingly
  • Never send your picture to a stranger

Cell phones (and other electronic products such as ipods) are popular items to steal from people.

  • Keep your cell phone in a safe and hidden place. For example, a coat pocket with a zipper.
  • Always know who is around you and be alert for people who maybe following you.
  • If someone tries to steal your phone and threatens your safety let him take the phone. You can always get another phone.
  • If your cell phone is stolen, go to a person in authority (a police, TTC staff) and report it or go to a staff in a store and ask to use their phone to call the police. It would also be a good idea to call home or your support staff to let them know what has happened.

Smart Phones (Blackberry, iphone)

  • A smart phone has many capabilities and can access the internet. Therefore, treat a smart phone the same as a computer – nothing you do is completely private and can be monitored by your internet service provider
  • Be careful what you are viewing on your phone while you are in public – make sure what you are viewing is appropriate or you can get into trouble – as a general rule you should ask yourself “is what you are watching in public something your parents/guardians would be okay with you watching?”

    • Use a hands free device

  • If you drive, don’t talk on your phone without a hands free device. It is not only unsafe – it is also illegal.

Adult Content and the Internet

We live in a world where movies, television, music videos and magazines not only provide us with hours of enjoyable entertainment but they can also expose us to countless images of sex and violence.

Supporting a Child/Youth

Access to websites and magazines with mature, adult content are readily available and are inappropriate and unsafe for viewing by an immature audience. As a child goes through adolescence parents need to make decisions about how much independence to allow their child. Based on your family beliefs and values and your child’s ability, you will need to decide what you are comfortable letting your child decide for themselves. This is especially true where the internet and web sites containing adult content are concerned.

Tips for Parents / Caregivers and Staff:

  • Set boundaries on discussions about sex and sexuality. For example, questions about sex can be asked of parents, health nurses or doctors but they are not a subject to be discussed in public areas or with people you do not know.
  • Physically locate all of the computers in your home (including laptops) in an area where they can be monitored. Make sure the computer screen is facing out into the room. This will enable you to monitor your child’s activities – which websites they are visiting, who they are “talking” to etc.
  • Web sites containing sexual content are often given internet names that are similar to the names of legitimate websites. Access to the content on these web sites can be blocked with the use of filters. Filters can be in the form of a system or a service. Although they can be beneficial, be aware that filters installed at a home or school will not block that material from being accessed somewhere else such as a library or internet café.
  • All internet browsers (e.g. Internet Explorer, Firefox) include a parental control program that helps parents monitor and set limits on the child’s use of the Internet.
  • Check the internet history on your computer on a regular basis to see which websites have been viewed by the users.
  • Limit the time an individual spends emailing or visiting social networking sites like Facebook, My Space, Twitter, etc.
  • If websites or printed material containing adult content are to be viewed by an individual, the person must have reached the “age of majority” for the area in which they live. In Ontario, the age of majority is 18 years old.
  • Stress the importance of doing this in a private place and not in a public space like a library or internet café. Give concrete examples of what is appropriate in a public space and what should be done in private. Make individuals aware of the consequences if this is not followed.

Supporting an Adult

As an adult who is using a computer, you will have access to adult content that may be a potential threat to your personal and /or financial safety. You may not recognize this threat.

One of the best ways to stay safe is to maintain an ongoing open dialogue about what you are doing on the internet with someone you trust. This could be a parent, other family member, a staff, a friend or a volunteer. Someone else may be able to point out safety concerns that you did not think of or were not aware of. Talk about where you are going on the internet – the websites, the chat rooms, the game sites that you are going to, the people you are chatting with and the types of conversations you are having, or anything that may seem strange to you.

Tips for Parents / Caregivers and Staff:

All of the tips included in the child / youth section are still relevant and important for those over the age of 18. However, you need to remember that the individual is an adult and has a right to make their own decisions on what they view on the computer. How you address the issues becomes one of making them aware of the issues and concerns (especially safety, financial and criminal impacts) and working together to ensure a safe experience on the internet.

  1. Home
  2. 2010