Thursday 14 January 2010

Should Kids Be Given Cell Phones?

By Leslie Hammond

It's difficult to deny the fact that cell phones are a big part of today's world. However, what age should a child be before he or she is permitted to have a cell phone?

There are many advantages as well as disadvantages in doing this. Cellular phones are quite attractive to thieves since it is very easy to sell. You would not want to expose your kid to that kind of danger and trauma. Also, make sure that your kid is already capable of properly using the phone or you are simple wasting money. Giving them a phone at such an early age may be spoiling them early. Giving them expensive things at a very young age may lead them to get used to asking for more as they grow. It also allows them easy access to other kids and activities that may hinder some of the more important aspects in their lives such as education.

There are, however, advantages to children having the use of cell phones. Cell phones can help them to be more responsible, and it also gives them experience with technologically advanced devices while they are young. Cell phones also provide a means for children to get help when an emergency arises and they need immediate assistance. It also gives them a way to check in with their parents so that their whereabouts are monitored. While it gives children more independence, it can also help them to feel trusted.

Considering all the above-mentioned pros and cons, it is safe to say that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. What is important is to still give them guidance in their use of their phones and do not buy the brands that are too expensive as it will just bring danger more than benefits. The bottom line here is it is the parents that could best decide for their own children knowing the type of personality their kids have. To them, a cell phone may be a necessity, a distraction, a luxury or just a fad.

It's up to parents to choose to spoil or discipline their children -- and giving or refusing a kid a cell phone can achieve both options. Of course there are factors involved in the purchase of a cell phone for a kid that go beyond age-appropriate decisions. These include the cost, the features available on individual phones, where your kids will be using their phones, and what content the phones can access, such as the Internet. These factors may also be regarded as benefits or disadvantages, depending on the parents' perspective.

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