Five Cell Phone Etiquette Rules for Thanksgiving

The holiday season has officially begun. Most of us who are hard wired on are smart phones checking emails, Facebook and sending text messages will have to disconnect- at least for dinner. 

It's easier said than done. To help keep harmony during family gatherings AT&T has shared with Patch some helpful tips on cell phone etiquette.

These five rules are sure to help you disconnect and enjoy memorable moments with your loved ones this season. 

5 Rules for Cell Phone Etiquette

1. Silence is golden: All cell phones should be on silent or vibrate mode on Thanksgiving day.
2. Create a cell phone free zone: Family can text, talk, surf online and check Facebook as much as they want during the football game and kitchen prep, but not at the Thanksgiving table.
3. No paparazzi: Take photos of family before or after the meal, but don’t whip out your camera phone during dinner (well, unless the baby's first Thanksgiving turns out to be really cute).
4. Take personal conversations outside (or in a different room): If you must take or make a call on Thanksgiving day, step outside or into another room, so that others aren’t forced to overhear your call.
5. Take a break between courses: If people need to check their phones, build in breaks between the meal and dessert when everyone is stretching their legs anyway.