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This is a question on many parents minds. Do they really need a cell phone? Just ask the outlets that sell them. They think that every child, regardless of age, should carry one. That it is a mandatory accessory for everyone to have. However most parents see it a little differently when trying to make a decision if their child should have one as well.

In some areas, like New York, education officials have taken care of the problem, stating children cannot have cell phones in class. Parents who thought their kids should be able to have a phone fought the district, even holding demonstrations saying their kids should be able to have a phone in order to get in contact with their parents in time of need. Do you agree with them?

Back in the day, cell phones were simply an emergency communication device used in times of, well, emergency. Nowadays many people don't even have a land line, preferring to use their cell as everyday phones. What you decide is entirely up to you. Only you can decide whether your children need a cell phone or not.

With the rapid advances in technology, cell phones are no less than mini computers. They provide the facility to send text messages and emails, take pictures and listen to music. Basically, the entire concept of cell phones has dramatically changed.

The question is whether all these peripherals are necessary for a preteen? Though parents and children think they are necessary, the truth of the matter is that a cell phone should be used only in an emergency. All the other features can wait to be exploited and utilized. Of course, it is difficult to convince your preteen on this subject. But, you must try and explain all the same. That means you as a parent have to decide whether a cell phone is a luxury or a necessity for your preteen.

If you are planning to buy a cell phone for your preteen, look for affordable plans and preferably those on which you can control the usage. The market is flooded with all sorts of deals. So do some research and buy a cell phone that is cost-effective. At this stage it is best to go in for the basic model with minimum features so that the cell phone itself restricts the usage to emergency only.

Try not to be swayed by other's opinions. It is your child and untimately your decision to make. On the other hand you may have difficulty explaining to your child why you can have a cell phone and they can't.

About: Dr. Noel Swanson has years of experience in helping parents with child behavior problems. To read more of his expert parenting advice visit his website and check out his GOOD CHILD Guide manual, jammed full of practical parenting advice.

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