Handling Cell Phone Use with Children and Teens

Many children and teens as young as fifth or sixth grade seem to have cell phones these days. Parents often wonder about when the right age to get your child/teen a cell phone is as well as how to effectively limit use when needed. Here are a few thoughts to keep in mind when looking at when to get your child/teen a cell phone and how to moderate their use effectively.

Deciding to Get Your Child/Teen a Cell Phone:

1)      Does your child/teen really need it? Is he or she often away from home without other adults and would need a phone to reach you on?

2)      What is your child/teen going to use the cell phone for?

a.      Calling you

b.      Calling friends

c.      Texting you or friends

d.      Staying connected with peers

e.      Apps such as Instagram and Facebook

f.       Watching videos on YouTube

g.      Apps to stay organized

3)      What features would an ipod touch not offer that would be needed in a cell phone?

Benefits of a cell phone:

1)      Can always reach your child/teen to know where he or she is

2)      Great apps to help him or her stay organized and manage their time effectively

3)      For some children/teens, helps them stay more connected with peers outside of school

4)      He or she will stop bothering you to get them a cell phone

Drawbacks:

1)      May spend too much time using the cell phone unless rules are laid out and enforced such as the following rules:

a.      No cell phone use after 8 PM

b.      No cell phone use at home until homework is complete

c.      Not allowed to download apps without parental permission

2)      Opens up the door for bullying and other peer related issues

3)      Can be expensive, especially if your child/teen is prone to losing items

The choice of whether or not to buy your child/teen a cell phone is ultimately up to you. Evaluating the necessity and usefulness of it in terms of direct communication with you, child/teen’s ability to connect more with peers, use of apps designed to improve time management and organization, and weighing the negatives are important when making the choice that is right for you and your child/teen.

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Dr. Carey Heller is a licensed psychologist with The Heller Psychology Group LLC in Bethesda, Maryland. He specializes in work with children, adolescents, and families, and is happy to answer questions and provide consultations for individuals who are considering pursuing treatment, an evaluation, or other services for their child, adolescent, or themselves. Dr. Heller can be reached at (301)-385-2610 or careyheller@thehellerpsychologygroup.com.

*Disclaimer: The previous information is intended as general guidance based on my professional opinion, does not constitute an established professional relationship,  and should not replace the recommendations of a psychologist or other licensed professional with whom you initiate or maintain a professional relationship*