It’s gotten to the point where the New York City public school system has banned them. Long a hotly contested issue, the move forced the matter to the top, from the public’s view: Do kids truly need cell phones? While the benefits of being able to keep in touch are undeniable and no parent would agree to give up the capability to contact their child at anytime, the trouble is, that kids being children, don’t use cell phones simply to stay in touch with mom and dad! Today’s mobile phones are so capable, they’re referred to as “smartphones,” or devices that combine media players for music, video with mobile gaming consoles, web browsing and texting.

While some parents believe that cell phones with limitations on texting or browsing the web cause no harm, kids will eventually find alternatives towards these limitations due to ever advancing technology. There will always be developments and enhancements in telecommunications that will makes limitations easier to get around.

Indeed, it may have been the widespread use of texting during class that served as the proverbial straw that broke the camel’s back. Thanks to miniature sized smartphones, no longer did the piece of paper have to be passed along from desk to desk. Trading notes was made simpler – and a lot more concealable as well. Smartphones basically allowed students to “thumb” their messages from underneath the desk or behind a book, while being easy to hide or password-lock at a moments notice.

So how old should children be before receiving their own cellular phone?

The restriction being placed by NYC on its public schools demonstrates how cell phones are no longer being seen in the context of security for kids. With so many kids sporting multiple phones, they seem to have become nothing more than a childhood toy, like skateboards or bikes.

There is also the matter of property. Kids are notorious for losing things and losing a cellular phone could lead to sensitive information, like the child’s address, contact info for both parents, including places of employment, being accessed. A lost cell phone may also include photos and other memorabilia that can be used in identity theft – or worse.

Ultimately, it is the parents choice of whether or not to give their child a cell phone. And if the child does have one, there’s only so much control a parent can exert over their child’s use of it and judging by popular consensus, many believe that it is much better for youngsters to have a means of communication than not. But, parents should continue to note the potential for misuse and even abuse – by both their children and others.

Find out more about cell phones for children, and how to choose the best phone.

Recommended 1st Cell Phone Product

The LG MIGO VX1000, released for Verizon Wireless, is a very basic small cell phone that is made specifically for young children. It fits small hands nicely and only has 4 numbered keys which the parent programs with the four numbers the child is allowed to call. The phone also has a speakerphone and a dedicated emergency button.