Kids and cell phones - when is the right time?

If you have a child any older than seven, you’ve probably already have had the “I want my own cell phone” discussion. Of course, every child wants a cell phone … but when does your child need a cell phone?

The need for a phone in the eyes of children is probably going to start the first time one of their peers gets one. Yes, some parent is going to give their kid a phone way before most other parents are ready. That’s a time when you need to hold your ground as the parent. Reasons like “Brianna has one” or “because it’s cool” aren’t valid enough to bend your judgment on what you feel is the right time to dole-out a cell phone to your kids.

However, there are some solid reasons to get your child a phone. Most parents take the plunge when the child has shown enough responsibility to potentially take care of the device and is spending time without parents. If you child is hanging out with friends or old enough to go to the mall without supervision, it might be time to get them a phone. Your kid can call if they are running late, and more importantly, call or text in case of emergency. You can also open a Face File account and instruct your child on how to use it and the phone’s camera function any time he or she happens to be in an unfamiliar or uncomfortable situation.

Once your child is driving, getting them a cell phone is a good idea. In fact, it’s almost a necessity from a safety standpoint. If there is a breakdown or accident, you want to know that your child can contact you or someone trustworthy to get help. Most parents get a phone for their kids somewhere in the 13 to 15 year-old age range.

There are phones that are made specifically for children, one of the most popular being the Firefly. There are parental controls and prepaid plans so you can stay in control of how the phone is used, and you won’t be surprised by a hefty texting bill caused by a kid who lost track of the limit. It’s also easy to get your kid connected with various family plans and buy one, get one free offers that most carriers have at one point or another. It doesn’t have to break the bank to get you kid in a phone call’s distance and if you opt for the Face File option, most  cell phones these days have cameras as standard as an added layer of protection.