Let’s Talk Kids and Cell Phones…
A 2012 survey by ORC International for the National Consumers League (NCL) found…
“Six out of 10 pre-teens were aged 10-11 when they received their phone. Twenty percent of 8-9 year olds and 15 percent of 12-year olds received a cell phone.”
My Sawyer is just turning 9 years old. And the thought that 20% of his peers already have cell phones shocks me. (My baby’s growing up!) While I’m not planning on purchasing a cell phone for him just yet, I have to admit that I can see the benefits of kids having them. So inspired by our new sponsor and Verizon Premium Retailer, Cellular Sales, I thought it was time to have a conversation about kids and cell phones.
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Cellular Sales. All opinions are 100% mine. Please see my disclosure policy.
At What Age Should Kids Have Cell Phones?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Quite frankly, it depends. It depends on your family situation and your child.
Common Sense Media reminds parents:
“If you think your kids’ technological savvy is greater than their ability to use it wisely, pay attention to the gap. You may need to say, ‘No, not yet.’ But if you think they might be ready, their ages aren’t as important as their maturity level, ability to follow your (and their schools’) rules, and their sense of responsibility.”
Here are some questions to consider when making the decision of when your child should have their first cell phone:
- Is your child responsible with her belongings? Does she lose things often?
- Does your child follow rules? Will she follow the rules you set for her cell phone use?
- Are there certain times when having a cell phone would be helpful for safety.
- Would having a cell phone help your child socially?
- Does your child understand appropriate social interaction via technology?
- What rules or limits will you set for cell phone use?
- Have you had a cell phone safety conversation with your child yet?
What Type of Cell Phone Would Be Best for Your Child?
This is another “It Depends.” answer. Once you’ve answered the questions above, and you’ve decided that it is the right time for your child to have a cell phone, it’s time to start shopping. The type of cell phone you choose will depend on your reason for your child having the cell phone and the rules and limits you plan to impose. You might choose a simple flip phone with only calling capabilities for a younger child, or you might decide that your child could benefit from having a smartphone with internet access. It depends entirely on your child’s maturity, your reasons for her having the phone, and even your budget.
Cellular Sales can help! As a Verizon Premium Retailer of cell phones, Cellular Sales offers appointments to help you choose the right phone for your child. No need to wait in line at the store during your busy holiday season! To book your appointment, just call the toll free number: 1- 866-609-8004. Plus find more tips and even special holiday offers on the Cellular Sales website and Cellular Sales on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.
What do you think about kids and cell phones? At what age should kids have cell phones? Join the conversation in the comments below!
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This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Cellular Sales. All opinions are 100% mine. Please see my disclosure policy.
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