





Why Does She Need It?
If the only answer is "because her friends have one," you might want to think more about the decision. According to Consumer Reports, 6 out of 10 parents of children ages 8 to 12 provide them with a cell phone, with 84 percent citing safety as their main concern, and 73 percent using it as a way to track after-school activities.
If you and your child are not often apart beyond school hours, a cell phone may not be a serious necessity, but if she is independent and involved with extracurricular activities or hobbies outside of your home, a cell phone could be useful during emergencies and as a convenient means of communication with you. If you feel your child is too young for texting and Web access, basic phones that only allow phone calls are available.
How Responsible is He?
Does She Understand the Safety Issues?
Most cell phones can be used in more ways than just calling for a ride home. Is your child old enough to be trusted to use her phone safely and follow any rules you've set when it comes to using it? According to PewResearch Center, 74 percent of teens ages 12-17 report accessing the Internet from their phone or mobile device and, according to AAA, 46 percent of teens admit to texting while driving.
Cyberbullying, texting and driving, and the use of social media apps are issues you need to discuss before allowing your child to have a cell phone.
Does He Understand the Cost?
Which Functions Are Appropriate?
PewResearch Center reports 37 percent of teens ages 12 to 17 now have a smart phone, with access to the Internet, music, text messaging, videos, and more. Before you get your child a phone with any of these functions, determine whether or not they are appropriate and necessary. For example, is your child on social media? Would you feel comfortable knowing he can access social media from her phone? If the phone is truly for communication with you, you may consider a device without all of the added capabilities, or at minimum, know what you can do to help keep his usage safe and appropriate.
How Can I Keep My Child's Phone Usage Safe and Under Control?
Also, educate yourself on what social media apps are popular with tweens and teens. If you prefer to take an extra step towards monitoring her phone use, these apps allow you to track your child's mobile activity.