Why Your Child Should Have a Cell Phone

When they first emerged on the scene, cell phones were considered a luxury…a novelty…and possibly a passing fad.

However, in the 21st century, cell phone use has exploded worldwide, as not only high-powered executives but also busy stay-at-home moms saw the benefit of these high-tech communication devices.

If you never want to be out of reach of your family, friends, or co-workers, chances are you already have a cell phone of your own.

But the question is, if you’re a parent, should you invest in a cell phone for your child?

The short answer to this question is a resounding, “Yes!” There are numerous reasons why your son or daughter should have a cell phone. Here are just a few:

Safety. A cell phone is a wonderful tool to protect your child from harm. It means that your son or daughter can be in instant communication with police, fire, or other emergency workers in case of accident or injury. It can also serve as a kind of electronic umbilical cord, helping to ensure that you are in constant communication with your child.

Convenience. When your child has a cell phone, there’s no need for him or her to go searching for a pay phone—and the quarters required to make a call.

Affordability. Thanks to today’s cost-effective cell phone plans, you can allow your child to have a cellular phone without having to worry about the cost involved. In fact, you could find that your child’s cell phone actually saves you money in the long run. When you communicate frequently with your child, costly misunderstandings can be eliminated.

Friendship-building. A cell phone can enable your child to cultivate friendships. In this way, they’ll learn valuable communication and interpersonal skills which will help them as they prepare for college.

Free long distance. With free long distance, you won’t have to pay for your child’s calls to Grandma in another town or a favorite aunt in another state. The cell phone calls can also help to cement your child’s relationship with extended family, making your child feel more secure.

Opportunity for responsibility. When your child has a cell phone, he or she has to learn responsibility. Your child will have to keep tabs on how many minutes have been used and will have to work to make sure the phone is not damaged. Even better, caring for a cell phone is much easier than taking care of a puppy or kitten.

If you still have some qualms about your child having a cell phone, keep in mind that you can place a number of restrictions on phone usage. For instance, you can buy a phone that will determine the individuals your child can call. You can also place limits on Internet access and prevent your child from using the phone for instant messaging. When your child is at home, you might want to establish a policy which requires your child to return the phone to you, so that the cell phone is only being used when necessary. Finally, you can use a plan with prepaid minutes to prevent your child from running up your cell phone bill.