Many teens and preteens use cell phones to stay in touch with parents and friends. Before buying a phone for your child, there are several things to consider so they can easily use the device in any situation, including emergencies.
Instructions
1. Look at the age of your child. If you're buying for a younger child, you may want to look at a cell phone with parental controls like the Firefly. Look at other kid-only phones from ChatNow, TicTalk, Disney Mobile and Mattel.
2. Decide on what features you need. Teens believe that text messaging is a necessary accessory. For any age child, you might want to be able to put parents and 911 on speed dial. Fireflys allow parents to program up to 22 phone numbers that come through or go out.
3. Shop around for cell phones. Cell phones can be more than a way to call Mom to pick you up. They can also be a fashion accessory in bubblegum pink or action toy slime colors. Superman fans can even buy a Superman phone.
4. Buy cell phones directly from cell phone providers, discount stores or online. Toys R Us sells cell phones for the younger set. Find out which cell phone providers market kids-only phones. For example, Cingular Wireless is the first national carrier for the Firefly phone.
5. Look at the different calling plans available. You might want to settle on a set amount of minutes each month or buy additional time as needed. Firefly allows kids to call 911 even if they have run out of minutes. Activate the phone through the providers you settle on.
6. Talk to your kids about rules and expectations regarding cell phone use. Remind them that cell phones are a privilege. For older kids, use the cell phone to teach responsible use by buying a plan that only allows a certain number of cell phone minutes or text messaging per month.
7. Monitor kids' cell phone usage. Many providers can send you a detailed statements that shows exactly what numbers your child is calling and receiving calls from. If you want to know where your child is at all times, look into a GPS Locator phone.
Tags: cell phone, your child, cell phones, cell phone providers, cell phones, kids cell
