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Does Your Pre-teen Really Need a Cell Phone?

It's question many parents are asking. Should your preteen have a cell phone? If you ask the modern media, every child, no matter the age, should have a cell phone. They think it's just part of being a person to have your own cell phone. But for a parent the question is a little different, trying to decide if it's time for their child to have a phone of their own.

Considering the nuisance value of cell phones, the Department of Education put a restriction on the children carrying cell phones to school in New York recently. The parents were more upset by it than the children. They held demonstrations to express their views why they considered it necessary for their children to carry cell phones. It helps them make immediate contact with their parents.

Gone are the days when cell phones were used for emergency purposes only. They have almost completely replaced regular landlines. However, only parents can decide whether their kids need a phone or not.

With the rapid advances in technology, cell phones are no less than mini computers. They provide the facility to send text messages and emails, take pictures and listen to music. Basically, the entire concept of cell phones has dramatically changed.

Does your teen need all these capabilities? While they would think they do need all the perks, for their age, they probably only need a cell phone to use in case of an emergency. One way to gauge if they can handle it is to mention it should only be for emergencies and see how they react.

While considering purchasing your pre-teen a cell phone, bear in mind the costs involved. Perhaps it would be better bundled in with your family plan. Most will allow you to add additional phones and choose how many minutes of usage are allowed. Stick with the basics and don't worry about the extras like voice mail and call display.

Parents are dependent on cell phones these days. So it is not easy for them to tell their preteen son or daughter not to use one. So you might as well accept the fact that you have to allow them to use cell phones.

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Need more expert parenting tips? Why not visit Dr. Noel Swanson's children's behaviour website?

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