Whether or not children should have cell phones depends on several different things. Of course, the age and maturity of the child has to be considered. Where the child would be taking and using the cell phone is another consideration. Is there a genuine need for the child to be carrying a cell phone of their own? One more thing that parents will be asking themselves is whether or not the expense of a cell phone for their child is something their financial budget can handle.

Obviously, there would be little reason for a small child, especially a preschooler, to be having a cell phone. There could possibly be an exception if there is a medical problem with your preschooler and you want the teacher at preschool to be able to be in contact with you in an emergency. Also, the number for that child’s doctor could be put into the phone so that the preschool could contact the doctor directly in an emergency.

What about a grade school age child? If the child goes from school to a latch-key program, there might be a reason for the child to carry a cell phone in order to keep communication open with you. It would be convenient for you to call your child directly if you will be late coming to pick him or her up. Maybe you will be parking in a different area or coming in a different car and want to call your child to tell him or her about the changes.

By middle school, nagging for cell phones is common. Your pre-teen will tell you that all of the children in school carry cell phones. If your child is involved in after-school sports, there might be a reason for that child to have his or her own cell phone. Should the child become injured, it would be easier for the child or the coach to contact you directly when there is a cell phone with your number already in the phone. Have your pre-teen earn that phone and use it to encourage good grades and positive behavior.

High school age—forget about it!! You would never win the argument against having a cell phone with a child of that age! You are busy and your teenager is busy! Cell phones are definitely necessary by this time, and that teenager can earn some money to help pay for the privilege.

For all ages of children, do yourself a favor and pay the extra money for warranty that covers the cell phone getting lost, stolen, or damaged! You will be glad you did!!