Parents, would you buy your 13 year old kid a cell phone?

Question

Just wondering.

Answer 1

Yes...My kids have had cell phones since they were 10, BUT they are all in Sports and have Daily Practices that I have to be able to keep in touch with them at all times in case I need to pick one up early,take someone else home...I'm going to be late etc...But they have limits.

Answer 2

Absolutely!  not only will this be good for emergencies but would be a great learning experience.  I would buy him/her a prepaid phone, something they would have to buy minutes to use it.  They could take there allowance and either blow it on junk (normal kids =)  or use it for the phone. If it meant that much to them they would have to make the choice.  

Answer 3

Nope

Answer 4

Yes if they need it to keep in touch with you.

Answer 5

If it had a GPS and either a no text feature or a feature where I could monitor the texts, pics, and calls that were allowed. There are many phones that are now set up to not be usable during certain hours (school) except to call police and parents. If my child wants a phone that is completely out of my access, he/she would need to get a job and pay for the phone and the plan.

Answer 6

My 10 year old daughter has a cell phone.  It is used when she is not with me (sports, sleepovers, mall outings).  No one has the number but immediate family members.  Perhaps as she becomes more mature and responsible, I will loosen the reigns, but little by little.  

Answer 7

I'm not a parent.I'm a teen.

And u know wat, I've seen just how kids who get cells at that age are.

Their not mature with it.

Nor do they appreciate it.

Really, I wouldn't.

It always ends up getin takin away by the school 2 cuss most schools don't allow cells and their so stupid and irresponisble that they text right in class where the teachers can see them and are really obiuse about them having a cell.

Answer 8

Yes!!!! 13 is a totally reasonable age to have a cell phone. At that age they need to start socializing and making a reputation for themselves. They need it just to keep in touch with their buds just as well as they need it for emergencies. I got my cell phone when I was 12 and it's helped me in many situations.

Answer 9

Yes.  They are excellent tools if used correctly and as long as the privilege is not abused.  Your child will always be reachable, and they will always be able to reach you.  But, the privilege should not be abused.  There are lot of options for parents now in limiting a child's cell phone use.

I strongly suggest that prior to giving him/her a cell phone you set the ground rules and have your son/daughter agree to them.  

Answer 10

If I did it would be a  pre paid trac fone with 10 minutes for emergencies.No picture abilities.

Answer 11

yeah.

i had one since second grade, but i dont know why i had it back then.