Kids and Cell Phones, Articles, living

Kids and Cell Phones

by Monique Dionne
published March 08, 2010

rating: (16 Ratings)

She is eight years old and wants a pretty pink cell phone just like her friend’s: should you get her one? Ten years ago, the answer would have been “no, of course not”. Today, the question isn’t as simple, and it’s possible to consider different options. We’ve got the advantages to saying “yes” and tips to ensure your child uses her cell phone reasonably and responsibly.

A question of security

The use of a cell phone can be considered, if for no other reason, as a question of security: your child will be able to reach you if she feels threatened or is held back at school for one reason or another. Plus, you’ll be able to communicate with her in case of an emergency.

…and trust!

Your little one will be thrilled with the trust you’ll be putting in her by fulfilling her wish for a cell phone: a good step towards a healthier self-esteem!

Awareness of the responsibility of a cell phone

But of course, you’ll have to supervise the use of the new cell phone. For example, here are some of the restrictions that could apply: no cell phone at school during class hours, no using it during homework time, or when it’s time to go to bed! You can also reserve yourself the right to check the call and text messaging history at any given time in order to better supervise the exchanges your child is having, and with whom.

You can discuss the rules with her before setting them in stone. The rules may differ from family to family: what is important is that there be certain limits, and that they be respected. Having a cell phone should be seen as a privilege, but also an important responsibility that should not be taken for granted.

And as for the colour: pink or blue… however she likes it—why not?

Tag(s): living, cell phones, kids, teen / tween, grade-schooler, parenting, technology