Does your pre-teen really need a cell phone?

I am proud to tell you that my 11 year-old does not have a cell phone.

I read a story today about how the 9-to-12 pre-teen category represents the fastest-growing segment among new cell phone users.

I’m not convinced it’s a necessity for kids that young and I’m certain they don’t need a “cell phone” policy at the elementary school ranks.

So, what does this make me? “Old school?” “Uncool?”

Maybe so.

But, there are a variety of reasons that I don’t think it’s necessary at that young age.

First of all, I don’t need my son getting hit by a car in the parking lot because his head is down and he’s texting something really important:

“Hey, dude?” … “What’s up?” … “Nothing.” … “You?”

Face it. You’ve heard those phone calls. They’re not exactly earth-shattering.

Secondly, does your pre-teen forget where he put his homework? His lunch money? Yep, mine too.

Chances are that phone is going to be on the cafeteria table, up for grabs.

And, lastly, do we really need our kids surfing the web at recess?

Technology is great, but let’s let these kids play four-square, kickball, whatever …

They don’t need to be on a cell phone just yet. And, furthermore, I’m sure their teachers would agree that the phones are a big distraction.

Kids of that age are probably not mature enough to know when to have them out and when to put them away. Heck, for that matter, neither are teenagers, but I guess we have to draw the line somewhere.

But, that’s just me … Old school, uncool dad of an 11 year-old.

How about you? Does your pre-teen have a phone? Why is it important that he/she have one?

Maybe you wholeheartedly disagree with me. Love to hear why!

• An editor by day, Scott Mayes is also dad to Matthew, Micah and Nathan. He’s a high school parent, a youth football dad and changes diapers. He’s experienced many things as a parent, but is absolutely clueless about raising daughters.

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