Should a parent purchase a smart Phone for their son if money is not an issue? Is it spoiling too much? PS. The child knows that the parents can afford it. Advice please!!!

I personally don't think an 8 year old needs one.

Hi. I'm 15 and i just got a cell 4 my birthday. I asked 4 one for 2 years. My parents said that I could have one when I started driving. So I got one and i am glad that they waited. Also, what do they need it for. I mean they don't have many activities after school. It really would be pointless for him to have one just to brag and play with. I mean if you think he should have one, then go ahead, but 8 year olds tend to not be very responsible so you probably would have to buy more than 1.

I think if the child is involved in a lot of extra-curricular activities such as sports or after-school type programs, etc, then a cell phone would be justifiable, but only to be used to call Mom and Dad.
I think if the child expects a phone because the parents can afford it, then there are a couple of major problems... A: The parents share way too much information about their finances w/their 8 year old child, and B: The parents are establishing a bad pattern by purchasing things for an 8 yr old just because he expects it. I don't believe that is a good thing for a child. Saying no is often harder than saying yes, but it makes the child a better person... a cell phone can't accomplish that!

Well said, CKA!

when my daughter was 8, i gave her a phone ONLY because her father lived half way across the country (so did his family and part of mine) so that when she went up there for school breaks, i could get ahold of her and talk to her when she needed help. i think THAT is a good reason too. otherwise, whats the point?