Mom's Talk - How Old is Old Enough for a Cell Phone?

Once upon a time, like say, ten years ago, a cell phone was viewed as something of a convenience, if not a luxury. But now, they have become a necessity of modern life. So, when it comes to kids and cell phones it is no longer a question of if, but when. And that's our topic this week with our Moms: At what age will you give your kids their first cell phone?

If you'd like to participate please do so in the comments section below. And if you're interested in joining the Mom's Council please contact me at shawn@patch.com.

When will you give your kids their first cell phone?

Kristin Blankenship:

My children are too young to carry cell phones. We do not have a home phone, so we have an extra line on a cell phone we leave at the house. I plan on letting my children have phones when I know they are old enough to keep track of them and not lose them.

Lori K. Weinraub:

My daughter got a cell phone in 4th grade. And I don't think her friend's parents agreed with our decision. But, my daughter had been injured at gymnastics practice and we wanted her to be able to call us any time and not have to be dependent on someone else to get her to a telephone. None of her friends had phones so she couldn't rack up the minutes calling them, and we didn't enable texting until 6th grade. When she did get texting, we made it unlimited to avoid any unpleasant surprises on the bill. Indeed, she was a good sport about waiting for texting for months after we promised it until we were able to switch cell phone plans. My daughter is in 7th grade now and we've never had a problem with her going over her minutes or otherwise abusing the privilege. The cell phone way is a good way for us to keep in touch.

Rachel Sandler (cell-phone user and teenager):

There really isn’t a right age for a kid’s first cell phone.  As a parent, you have to assess the maturity of your child and take into account how often he/she would actually use it.  It is pointless to buy a phone for someone if they are too young because it would probably end up collecting dust since none of his/her other friends have a cell phone yet. On the other end of the spectrum, waiting too long can cause myriad of problems. First, your child would have no way to contact you if necessary.  As your child gets older they become more prone to be in situations where contacting you might be required. Think of a cell phone as a lifeline between you and your child.  Also, your child would have no way to talk to/ make plans with/ gossip/ vent to their friends. Now, the previous might seem a little futile and not essential, but as a teen/ pre-teen keeping up with and communicating with friends outside of school is very important for a healthy social life. However, the best question to ask before you buy your child a cell phone is, is my child ready for a cell phone?