Picking a cellphone for kids
JASON DECROW / STR
Parents should consider when their children will be using the cellphone the most (time of day) and how he or she will be using it, i.e. to mostly text, make voice calls, surf the Web, etc. Are you a parent shopping for a cellphone for a student heading back to school?
“For kids, getting a new wireless phone is about being cool and connected; for the parents it’s about staying in touch with their children while keeping within a budget,” said AT&T spokeswoman Kelly Starling.
AT&T offers these shopping tips:
• Take a “cell” assessment to determine the plan that best meets your child’s/family’s needs.
• Consider when your child will be using the cellphone the most (time of day) and how he or she will be using it, i.e. to mostly text, make voice calls, surf the Web, etc.
• Determine how many minutes will be needed each month and how many months service will be required.
• Learn how to keep track of minutes to help you better manage your child’s wireless plan.
• Make sure the service works where your child needs to use the device.
• Consider prepaid options and parental controls that allow you to put restrictions on the account if cost is a big concern.
• If everyone in the household is with the same wireless provider, consider a family plan that lets users on the account share minutes.
• Make sure to get the appropriate data plan to avoid overages for text messaging and data use.
• If your child is headed out of state for college, make sure he or she has a national plan to avoid unnecessary roaming charges.