What’s the most appropriate age for a child to get his or her first cell phone?

Asked at Lawrence Public Library on December 22, 2015

“It's hard to say. It really depends on the maturity of the child.”

— Mandy Shultz, teacher, Lawrence

“If their parents work outside the home, the younger the better so they can reach them easily in an emergency. Nine years old sounds about right.”

— Sandra Hardie, office worker, Lawrence

“Not until age 16 or 17. Anybody younger doesn't need that much access to the Internet and the world out there.”

— Lani Benton, unemployed, Lawrence