If you recently received your first smartphone, let me say congratulations! Your new phone is basically a mini computer. You will find that it comes with all kinds of features and functions. You will also find that it comes with responsibilities and maybe a few rules.

Don't fret, following a few rules is not just something for teens when it comes to new technology. We all need a review now and then of the responsibilities of owning a smartphone. And, I promise, we will also get to the fun stuff.

Responsibilities — Your Smartphone and What You Definitely Should Do:

These are things that you really want to keep in mind, and to follow. They are simple rules to keep you safe, and keep your phone privileges safe. More than likely, you've already heard them.

Your new phone probably came with some rules — from your parents. They might have asked that you always take their calls, that you use your phone to check in, that you let them know you might be late, or to ask permission before changing your plans. Those simple rules are not at all unreasonable, and some are often followed by adults as well. You might also have been asked to take care of your phone. Be careful of getting it wet, or dropping it. That’s also very understandable as smartphones can be expensive to replace or repair.

Then there’s the topic of phone etiquette. No texting at the dinner table, no phone calls at the dinner table, no late night calls coming in or going out. You would have to agree, those are also not unreasonable.

Yet, what about your phone and social media? When you are a new teen or in your early teen years, your parents absolutely need to know what you are saying, sending, and showing to others. Social media is still new to many people, it changes everyday, and yes, your parents do have the right to be concerned about your safety on your phone, just as they are when you are using a computer.

Possibilities — Your Smartphone and What You Can Do:

These are things that are fun, artistic, amazing, affordable, and will probably receive approval from your parents.

Smartphones can play both music and movies. You can download your music playlists, listen to free online music services and radio stations. You can also watch movies using online services as well as movie files you may already own.

You can also record your own music and movies using apps. Some of them are free lite versions that you can try out before buying.

If you like to read, you can add your ebook collection through several online services. There are even services now that enable you to download a textbook. Many libraries also have incredible online collections where you can borrow an ebook.

Speaking of school, smartphones are great for keeping notes, schedules, assignments, and any project lists you need for your classes. You will be able to find free or inexpensive word processing apps for your phone. Some of these can even sync directly to your computer or laptop.

Do you like to take pictures? Smartphones can take pictures and you can find plenty of services online to share your photos, and some really fun apps to enhance your photos. You can even file them in separate albums or find an app to create a photo book for your family and friends.

Are you artistic? You can be. There are collections of apps for all kinds of art forms. You can draw, color, collage, scrap book, make greeting cards, or posters. You can also write full length novels with the help of writing apps.

What about games? No matter what you like to play, traditional board games, card games, action games, word games . . . you can find free and affordable apps for your phone.

Honor and enjoy your new smartphone privileges.

Visit the Teen Site forum and let us know about any cool applications and/or games you have found. We are always looking for suggestions.