A One-Of-A-Kind Cell Phone Agreement Gets Teens, Parents "Off the Hook"

If you’re the parent of teens, you’ve undoubtedly been faced with the decision of whether to give in to your teen’s begging for a cell phone or not. Rest assured, you’re not alone. In fact, more than 30% of all American teens already sport a cell phone on their hip or in their pocket and the other two-thirds, well, as a parent, you already know they want one, too.

Consider this: You can use the cell phone debate to promote more than the safety of your teen. You can also use a cell phone to work with your teen to foster responsibility, to promote an understanding of bills, even to increase communications (and not just those on a cell phone).

Using “Off the Hook,” a free cell phone agreement developed for teens and their parents by the father of teens, parents can work hand-in-hand with their teen to find a suitable cell phone plan and then to make sure they understand the responsibility (and the costs) that go along with cell phone ownership.

“Off the Hook” is a unique agreement that can be printed out and that details everything, including the amount of minutes and text messages allowed each month, cell phone etiquette (for instance, cell phones are not to be turned on in class or at the dinner table) and roaming/long distance charges.

The “Off the Hook” contract also stipulates that the bill will be discussed each month and that teens are responsible for explaining who calls and text messages are sent to and received from.

Not only does “Off the Hook” promote stronger communications between parents and teens, it provides an opportunity for teens to learn about bill payment, while further ensuring their safety.

In fact, studies show that teens use cellular telephones daily to call for assistance with vehicle breakdowns, personal emergencies, and to report accidents or criminal activities. And, being able to call mom and dad or even 911 when a crisis demands, especially during the holiday season when parties run late and drivers may be impaired, is priceless (and painless with “Off the Hook”).

Finally, a win-win situation that bridges the gap that exists between you and your teen when it comes to solving the heated cell phone debate.