| As technology continues to develop at an | | | | distraction in a school setting. |
| ever-increasing rate, new social expectations and | | | | * Instant text messaging can cause information to be |
| mobile devices are becoming a huge part of our | | | | spread quickly and secretly. Rumours, test answers, or |
| children's lives. Because of this, it seems as though | | | | incorrect information can all be passed instantaneously |
| even the youngest of children want a cell phone. | | | | to the detriment of those involved, not mention |
| Whether you agree with this or not, there are | | | | becoming a major nuisance for everyone else. |
| arguments to be made about not allowing your child to | | | | * Cellular phones in the hands of children not ready for |
| have a cell phone at school. Listed below are some | | | | the responsibility of having one can be problematic. |
| negative aspects of allowing your child to take a cell | | | | Prank phone calls, or other misuse can occur if your |
| phone to school. | | | | child is not mature enough to handle having a cell |
| There are a number of reasons why you shouldn't | | | | phone. |
| allow your child to take a cell phone to school. Some | | | | * Extra cellular phones for your child or children can be |
| of these include the following: | | | | quite expensive to maintain. You should be sure to |
| * Often, children will forget to operate their phones in | | | | check into phone plan options and minute pooling to |
| silent mode, resulting in class disruptions and annoyed | | | | make sure you maximize your dollars before |
| teachers. This could even result in your child's phone | | | | purchasing a cell phone for your child. |
| being confiscated as punishment if your child's teacher | | | | Ultimately, you and your family will have to weigh the |
| or school has a no cell phone policy. Make sure you | | | | options surrounding letting your child bring a phone to |
| check with the school prior to making your decision. | | | | school. Discuss the situation with your child and be sure |
| * With more and more options being built into new | | | | to take their opinions and reasoning to heart. Make |
| phones, these devices may be used for things other | | | | sure you're aware of the benefits of allowing them to |
| than just phone calls. Add-ins such as text messages, | | | | carry a phone at school before making your decision. |
| cameras, and music players could prove to be a major | | | | In the end, you'll have to decide what you think is best. |