To phone or not phone? That is the question.

To phone or not phone? That is the question.

I had told my kids I wouldn't get them a cell phone until they were in high school starting at an early age. This year, however, my son entered middle school and my eyes were opened to the possibility that he might actually need a cell phone now. 

Kids these days use them for communication and social interaction when they're not in school. Having introverted not very active kids leave them lonely and cut off from the world without the use of a device. S, we made the big jump and got our middle schooler a cell phone and our elementary kid a smartwatch. The smartwatch was likely unnecessary but it has come in handy. 

It's becoming increasingly common for children to have access to electronic devices like cell phones and smartwatches. As a parent, you might be considering getting your middle schooler a cell phone or giving your elementary school age kids a smartwatch. But before you do, it's important to consider the pros and cons of these decisions.

Pros and Cons of Getting Your Middle Schooler a Cell Phone:

Pros:

• Safety: A cell phone can be a useful tool for keeping in touch with your child and ensuring their safety, especially if they walk or bike to school, or participate in after-school activities.
• Communication: A cell phone can make it easier for you to communicate with your child and vice versa, whether it's to coordinate pick-up times or to check in throughout the day.
• Independence: Giving your child a cell phone can help them develop a sense of independence and responsibility.

Cons:

• Distraction: Cell phones can be a major distraction for students, especially in the classroom. They can also lead to social media addiction or cyberbullying.
• Cost: Cell phones can be expensive, and the cost of the device and the monthly service plan can add up quickly.
• Screen time: Giving your child a cell phone can lead to increased screen time, which can have negative impacts on their physical and mental health.

Pros and Cons of Giving Your Elementary School Age Kids a Smart Watch:

Pros:

• Safety: A smartwatch can be a useful tool for keeping in touch with your child and ensuring their safety, especially if they are too young for a cell phone.
• Communication: A smartwatch can make it easier for you to communicate with your child and vice versa, whether it's to coordinate pick-up times or to check in throughout the day.
• Education: Some smartwatches have educational features that can help young children learn and develop important skills.

Cons:

• Distraction: Smartwatches can be a distraction for students, especially if they have games or other non-educational features.
• Cost: Smartwatches can be expensive, and the cost of the device and the monthly service plan can add up quickly. We chose to use Gabb and so we pay less than $15 a month. I love it because it's limited in its features and it doesn't break the bank.

There are both pros and cons to giving your middle schooler a cell phone and giving your elementary school age kids a smartwatch. It's important to consider the individual needs and maturity level of your child, as well as your own family's values and priorities. With careful consideration and communication, you can make an informed decision that works best for your family.