• Cell phones can help teens stay safe.girl and cell phone image by Michael Drager from Fotolia.com
  
  Teens who own cell phones seem to use them almost constantly, whether it's to talk, text or use the Internet. Parents disagree, however, about the value of teens having cell phones. They cite the expense, even though family plans may allow them to add a teen line for only a few dollars a month. Positive things about teens owning cell phones can include several factors.
  
  

Emergencies

• Parents like the safety feature of the ability to use a cell phone in an emergency. Whether your teen is driving, at a sporting event or spending time at a friend's house, cell phones can alleviate some of the separation anxiety parents feel. In cases where the child spends time with another parent, cell phones offer the added option of being able to communicate easily with the other parent. Cell phones offer a practical way to do something as simple as trying to locate your child at the mall. Teens can also call 911 from their cell phone if needed. Federal Communications Commission regulations require that all cell phones transmit 911 calls to an emergency provider, even if the service is with another cell phone company.
  
  

Communication

• Parents like the ease of being able to keep in touch with their active teen, being able to send a quick text that says "I'm thinking of you" or letting your child know you decided to meet for the 8:30 movie instead of the 7:00 show. For a practical communication tool, cell phones offer an efficient option. With texting options, which some teens prefer, you can still monitor your child's conversations for appropriateness. Teens also like the ability and convenience of communicating with friends.
  
  

GPS

• GPS features allow a provider to track and locate a cell phone in case the owner is lost or in an emergency. The Whereifone, specifically created for ages six to ten, has an "SOS" panic button for use in emergencies.
  
  

Responsibility

• Owning a cell phone helps teens learn responsibility. The teen needs to keep track of his cell phone and remember to charge it. The teen demonstrates additional responsibilities as he proves he can stay within allotted call and texting minute time frames. Parents can then increase the responsibility they give their child, both related to cell phone usage and to other privileges.