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Cell Phones For Pre-Teens?

This is a question on many parents minds. Do they really need a cell phone? Just ask the outlets that sell them. They think that every child, regardless of age, should carry one. That it is a mandatory accessory for everyone to have. However most parents see it a little differently when trying to make a decision if their child should have one as well.

In some areas, like New York, education officials have taken care of the problem, stating children cannot have cell phones in class. Parents who thought their kids should be able to have a phone fought the district, even holding demonstrations saying their kids should be able to have a phone in order to get in contact with their parents in time of need. Do you agree with them?

Back in the day, cell phones were simply an emergency communication device used in times of, well, emergency. Nowadays many people don't even have a land line, preferring to use their cell as everyday phones. What you decide is entirely up to you. Only you can decide whether your children need a cell 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.

The question is whether all these peripherals are necessary for a preteen? Though parents and children think they are necessary, the truth of the matter is that a cell phone should be used only in an emergency. All the other features can wait to be exploited and utilized. Of course, it is difficult to convince your preteen on this subject. But, you must try and explain all the same. That means you as a parent have to decide whether a cell phone is a luxury or a necessity for your preteen.

As you debate the purchase of a cell phone for your preteen, keep in mind there are ways to control the cost and usage of the phone through family plans. Many of them will allow you to pick the kind of phone and how many minutes the preteen can have. You can stick with something simple that doesn't have all the extras.

Try not to be swayed by other's opinions. It is your child and untimately your decision to make. On the other hand you may have difficulty explaining to your child why you can have a cell phone and they can't.

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Need more expert parenting advice? Visit Dr. Noel Swanson's child behavior website.

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