Well, as Anthony is successfully “mingling” with other middle schoolers, the question of “When can I have a cell phone?” was asked. Although he is only 12 years old, it seems like children younger than him have phones. I understand the secure feeling that parents have of being able to call your child at any given time to communicate and know where they are. But by giving them their own phones, aren’t we giving our kids an all access pass to talk to and text anyone they want without much supervision? And some phones have Internet access on them. Which could lead into more trouble. Maybe I’m a little overprotected, but I think that now more than ever, we need to monitor very closely who our kids are socializing with. And cell phones makes it more difficult. Of course I’d like Anthony to build friendships with the other kids but at what cost. I don’t want to “lose” him to the texting scene just yet. Anthony is still a very active member of the family. He still participates in family game night and still enjoys pretend play with his siblings. I know that as he gets older, he might want more independence. But for right now, Anthony is learning family love and acceptance by just being part of our team. Which requires no texting.  So no, Anthony will not be getting a cell phone.Kimberly Wragge
http://www.kimsautismawareness.com