Folders, pencils and… iPhones? The contents of a grade schooler’s backpack used to be standard. Now it’s not uncommon to find a cell phone wedged between a sack lunch and some Smencils. But are these kids too young? Experts weigh in on the pros and cons of giving cell phones to children as young as first grade.
A first grader is too young
According to Nancy Irwin, PsD, “Unless the first grader is a working actor and needs last minute info, it is my professional opinion that yes, indeed 6 years old is way too young for a cell phone.”
“Basically, if they are not old enough to understand that it needs to be charged, turned off at key times, etc., then they are too young for the responsibility of a phone. A 6-year-old’s job is to be 6 years old! They are learning how to focus, not multitask. Imagine being a teacher in front of a class of 30 first graders with cell phones ringing and texting!” says Irwin.
Read More: http://www.allparenting.com/my-family/articles/960715/when-should-kids-get-cell-phones