Some people feel that children who have not reached sixth grade should be prohibited from carrying mobile devices. In my opinion, supervised use is acceptable as smartphones are useful tools.
The primary reason for carrying a mobile device is for communication, and that is a valid reason for young children to have phones. In particular, children can reach their parents or officials in cases of playing around or being alone at home and emergency situations. For example, my sister has a ten-year-old son who likes to ride his bicycle in the nearby park, and he carries a cell phone. last summer, one of his friends fell of his bike and hit his head. My sister’s son was able to use his phone to call an ambulance and my sister. Thanks to his prompt response, adults came quickly and the friend, who had a concussion, received the help he needed at the time. Hence, mobile devices are valuable for contacting others when needed.
An additional reason for my stance is that most mobile devices have apps that can help children study and learn. Admittedly, children are more likely to play video games than study, but parents can select a plan that limits unwanted programs. Furthermore, parents can help select the apps that fit a child’s interest and skill level to supplement formal education in school. For instance, a young child who likes animals can learn math through a program that is set in a jungle and includes problems counting the animals. Accordingly, educational apps can encourage creative thinking and nurture skills that will help in any career in the future.
In conclusion, as long as they are monitored, children should should be allowed to carry mobile devices before they reach sixth grade.