by S Mullen

Created on: March 30, 2007   Last Updated: April 25, 2007

Welcome to the electronic age: Accepting this technology is a good thing.

When faced with the question, "Can I get a cell phone?" parents should prepare themselves by educating themselves. First, determine whether or not your teen really needs a cell phone. I have a fifteen-year-old son. He is in the minority, because it was I who decided he needed a cell phone not him. I wanted him to have a phone, so we could communicate whenever we needed. Cell phones are an excellent technology for staying connected. Did you know that 60 million teenagers now carry cell phones and rarely leave home with out them. Teen college students are the most active cell phone users. We must admit, teens love their cell phones. Parents should seize this teen attraction for cell phones and use it for the parents' own advantage. There is nothing comparable to easing your peace of mind, like a quick call expressing that your teen is running late, or telling you where they are. One third of all teens or pre-teens in the United States carry a cell phone.

Parent cell phone buyers beware; teens can run the bill up for excess minutes, for text messages, for phone-based e-mail and other services. Decide on a plan that meets the need for getting the phone. Getting a phone for your teen that has extra accessories; such as, music, videos, and games can be burdensome. You may opt for phones and plans that will keep the phone usage and the bill under control. Do some research before you buy.

A cell phone can also tend to change relationships: positive or negative. Have a clear cut agreement before you purchase the phone and make your teen a part of the creation of this agreement. Make up rules and consequences as a part of your plan. Explain the finances of cell phone usage. Advise your teen of cell phone etiquette, rules, and laws surrounding their use. Most states have laws about cell phone usage and driving especially when it comes to teen driving.

How about the old adage, "What did we ever do before we had cell phones?" We communicated differently! We left notes, called from pay phones, left messages with family and friends. We had emergency plans that did not involve being able to instantly communicate. As with any technology, do not become completely reliant on it. Cars break down, airplanes are late, computers crash, and cell phones loose signal, battery, and can down right infuriate us at times. Make sure you have a back up plan for when your cell phones do not work on daily basis and for your family emergency plan.

The cell phone is a sign of the times. Whether we embrace it or not, it is here to stay. Believe it or not, using a cell phone and many of the features it has prepares your teen as a future productive member of society!

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