Kids + Cell Phones: What Age Is the Right Age?

Speaking of cell phones and kids...

Shaun of Virginia writes: Do you think a 12-year-old 6^th grader should have a cell phone? Why? The school doesn't allow them. Who are they going to call that they can't call from a home phone? For me, 16 is the right age for a cell phone, when they are driving and need to call home for help or to report in.

This is the kind of question that does not have one, neat answer. There is no perfect age for a first cell phone. Deciding when to give children cell phones is an individual family choice, and it depends on lots of variables.

Some parents give in to kids' requests for cell phones as cool accessories. Others opt for a family plan because everyone in the family is off in different directions on weekdays; parents want the peace of mind of knowing their children can reach them in a moment's notice if needed, and they can call them, too.

For young children enrolled in after-school programs, or who move between divorced parents' homes, having a phone can be a good idea. For one family, 8 might be the right age; for another, 16.

If you're weighing whether to add cell phones for your kids, here are a few questions to ask:

• How and when will they use the phones? Are the phones for emergency use only or for communicating with friends, too?

• What is the entire monthly cost, including fees, text messaging, photos, ringtone and music downloads?  Know what you're getting into as you add a sizeable monthly expense to the family budget.

• Will your child, especially a teenager who is earning money, contribute to the family cell plan?

My oldest is 13 and she doesn't have a cell phone yet. But I've been researching the best cell phone plan for her and our budget. More and more, there are lots of times when she is out and about and we would all feel better if she had a phone so she could reach us easily if needed.

What's the right age for kids to have cell phones in your home?