Text Messaging Etiquette tips:

1. Texting while having a face-to-face conversation with someone is just as rude as taking a call during a conversation.
2. Don’t use text messaging to send a very important message. Don’t break up with someone via text, or send important information to your boss.
3. Don’t send text messages while under the influence! If you have a habit of doing this, leave your phone at home (if you’re going out) or give it to a friend to hold for the evening.
4. Keep things as simple as possible. It is difficult to detect the tone of a text message. If you’re making a joke, it’s a good idea to make it clear by using a smiley or “j/k”.
5. Don’t text message and drive! Keep two hands on the wheel and two eyes on the road.
6. Reply to people when they send you a text, even if it’s just one word. Technology is fallible, so it’s always good to know when the message has been received.
7. Keep in mind that anything you send as a text message can be traced.
8. Be mindful of your friends’ schedules. Don't assume that because you’re awake, working, not busy or out that the person you're texting is as able to answer you immediately.
9. If you require an immediate response, or have a lot to say, a voice call is probably the best way to go.
10. Even if your phone is set to vibrate, don’t text in public places like a theatre or a cinema. The glow from your device could be very distracting to some people.

Kids / Parent Info:

1. You should never share your cellphone number with someone you don’t know, or post it on an Internet site (like Facebook or MySpace) or give it out in a chat room.
2. If you find yourself being harassed by another wireless user via SMS, don’t keep it a secret. Tell a parent or teacher. Do not sink to the bully’s level! Don’t respond to the harassment with harassment.
3. If you’re having a problem with text messaging bullying, report it to your service provider and give them the offending cell number. They might be able to help.
4. If you’re receiving unknown messages, keep track of the originating phone numbers or email addresses, and report this information to your wireless carrier.
5. Most online text messaging services (such as receiving a joke of the day, or receiving contest alerts) cost money. Make sure you read all of the details and check with a parent before participating in a text messaging contest, or subscribing to online text messaging services.
6. Like subscription services, texting to download ringtones, wallpapers and themes are rarely free. Keep in mind that there may be a fee for these downloads appearing on your next bill, so it’s best to keep parents informed of all wireless purchases.
7. Text messages are totally traceable, so it’s best not to write anything or conduct yourself in any way that you would not want a parent to read about