Saw this post by Julie Bonner, where she talks about her daughter getting a cell phone before the age of 11. Now, some of you just raised an eyebrow. You’re wondering if that’s a bit early for a ten year old to own a cell phone. I’m going to say that it’s not, from my perspective. With current requirements on scheduling, freedom, and even safety, giving a child a cell phone seems to be moving towards being the norm.

That said, there are several things to consider before rushing off to buy your son or daughter a phone.

When You Go To Buy

• Look into adding a line to your existing plan, but don’t consider that the only option. If there’s a friends and family or circle plan type of account that lets you do unlimited dialing, but also unlimited TEXTING, that’s the plan you want.
• Remember that texting and data plans are more important than calling plans for most kids. Find out what it takes to go unlimited. It sounds like a lot, but then, getting a $497.80 bill is a lot, too.
• Find out what parental controls and protections are available for the plans. If your carrier doesn’t offer any, complain (politely) first, and then seek alternate plans. You’re looking to see whether they offer white list / black list of phone numbers (to block off creeps and/or protect against random calls). You can ask whether they have parental blocks on the web browser, too. (Remember, it’s easy to get stuff on a cell phone that you don’t want your little people to watch.)
• If there are stores set up with the phone, such as ringtone stores and the like, see if there’s any way to block, or limit their use. Remember that you might find yourself paying a few hundred bucks in unplanned “I Kissed a Girl” charges, otherwise.

Between You and Your Child

• Set up rules of the road. Give them a sense of the boundaries, and be as clear as possible. Saying, “don’t talk too much” or “don’t make unnecessary calls” is as useful as saying “don’t do something bad.”
• Be aware of how kids use their phones. Texting and IM are tons more popular than voice. They also afford privacy between kids talking. Sometimes, that’s not a bad thing. Other times, it’s a chance for conversations you don’t want your kids having to go on. This is a really tricky water to navigate, discussing what’s appropriate and what’s not. Be as clear as you can. (want to hear other’s opinions in the comments on this, please).
• Have solid rules about the use of cell phones at family times (and at other occasions where it might not be appropriate to be using one’s phone). Thing is, if you make it a rule for them, be sure you follow it, too.
• Review your child’s usage and billing records with him or her. Show your kids the impact of their efforts. Reward them for staying within the boundaries, and decide what to do if they’re way outside the lines.

There are probably more ways parents can prepare for this. Any ideas on what I’ve missed, or some best practices for you? When did your kid get her first cell phone?

Photo credit, jsc

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