While there is an added expense, most parents agreed that the pros outweigh the cons. If not monitored, a cell phone can lead to too much freedom. Setting boundaries and rules regarding whom a child can talk and the amount of time they can spend on the cell phone is important, Dr Ramey said. A child given a phone for emergencies, or for specified purposes will respect that it is a privilege. On the other hand, a child given unlimited usage to a cell phone will likely abuse the privilege.
Many parents set rules such as, for emergency use only or to get in touch with mom and dad only .
Some parents allow their children to use the phone freely, but require the child to pay for usage above and beyond a set amount. Experts said that this helps the child appreciate the privilege of having a cell phone.