Article: Though you may see 3-year-olds playing Candy Crush in the supermarket, very young children do not need a cell phone. Though the appropriate age differs based on circumstances, many families have decided that once their child is in middle school they can handle the responsibility of having their own phone. At that point, they will have a better understanding of when and where it’s appropriate to use their phone and when it’s not. There may be certain cases in which younger children may need a phone. If your child drives, rides their bike, or walks to and from school, extracurricular activities, or friend’s houses, it might be a good idea to get them a phone. You’ll be able to stay in touch and check in when they’re away from home. Have your child text you between school and soccer practice, for example. If your child often loses expensive items, like their glasses or tablet, or breaks electronics, they may not be ready for a cell phone. They’ll need to keep track of the phone for safety reasons so others can’t access their data, as well as financial ones as phones are costly to replace. Make sure your child can demonstrate responsibility before allowing them to get a phone. By allowing your child to have a cell phone, you are showing them that you trust them to make the right decisions. If your child has shown trustworthy behavior in the past, such as meeting curfew consistently or being honest and reliable, they are likely ready to use a phone appropriately. If your child feels entitled to having a phone and uses arguments like, “But everyone else has one,” you may want to hold off. Encourage them to understand that people need to work for and earn what they want, rather than getting it handed to them. If your child is willing to help pay the bill or do extra chores in exchange, they could be ready for their own phone. Even if you decide to let your child have a phone, it doesn’t mean you can’t take it away. Many parents find that taking their child’s phone away due to bad grades or poor behavior is a great motivator. Keep in mind that if your child uses their phone improperly, whether that’s ignoring your calls, racking up the phone bill, or texting inappropriately, they may not be ready to have their own cell.

What is a summary?
Consider your child’s age. Get them a phone if they’re independent. Avoid purchasing a phone for irresponsible children. Show your children you trust them with a cell phone. Don’t get a phone for kids that haven’t earned it. Take the phone away as a means of discipline.