In the United States, pre teens and teens own and use a tremendous number of mobile devices.
Research also found that the kids surveyed average over half an hour talking on the phone and send more than 100 text messages, every day. That is more than 3,000 a month, and at least double the number of European kids. For some it is a truly addictive behavior like tweeting. Many plans offer unlimited texts.
Relatively few seventh through twelfth graders have any established rules around mobile phone use. That might be because of lack of guidance, but it might also be due to trust between the children and parents.
The Pew Internet report is worth reading. It covers a wide range of topics related to mobile usage by teens.
Because of this area of lack of guidance, Microsoft has prepared a brochure about mobile safety. I honestly believe it’s our duty as parents to look at it as well as The Pew Report, and talk with our young. Supper time is a really good time to do it also.
This brochure from Microsoft will help you better understand the features and risks of mobile phones for kids and explain how you can teach kids to use them smartly and safely. It’s never too late until something bad happens.
Download page: Microsoft
The advice and risks also apply to other mobile devices like Kindles, iPads, etc.
Source: http://www.thewindowsclub.com/risks-of-mobile-phones-and-devices-for-kids-brochure-from-microsoft
http://www.pewinternet.org/Reports/2010/Teens-and-Mobile-Phones/Introduction.aspx?view=all