Can You Hear Me Now?

Pros and Cons of Kids Having Cell Phones

By
Relationship Advice Expert April Masini

Q: Dear April Masini,

My nine-year-old has been begging me for a cell phone. Personally, I think it's ridiculous that kids her age have cell phones, but it seems like every single one of her friends has one. I suppose there are some safety benefits to having one, but is it really necessary for kids to have cell phones?

Sincerely,

Wireless Kids

A:

Dear Wireless Kids,

It was bound to happen. Children are being given cell phones at younger and younger ages.

Here are the pros and cons of this behavior:

Pro:

*Know your child's whereabouts. The cell phone is a great way to stay in touch with your child or tween.

Con:

*Just because your child has a cell phone doesn't mean he or she will have it turned on, have the battery charged, or take your call when you want to reach them.

Pro:

*Your child can call you in case of an emergency or schedule change.

Con:

*Your child can also call someone else in case of an emergency or schedule change. You might not like who they're talking to.

Pro:

*You can track your child's calls by looking at the cell phone bill.

Con:

*Your child may run up a huge bill.

Pro:

*You can keep in touch with your child and enhance your relationship with them by sending photos and instant messages or e-mails to their phone.

Con:

*Anyone can call your child, and transmit photos, e-mails, and instant messages to them.

April Masini -- nicknamed "the new millennium's Dear Abby" by the media, is author of the best-selling books Date Out Of Your League and Think & Date Like A Man, the two (just released) step-by-step dating and relationship manuals, Ideas for a Fun Date and Romantic Date Ideas, and the critically acclaimed dating and relationship online magazine www.AskApril.com.

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