[MountainMomma]

At what age do you think it's okay for kids to have their own TV? Computer? Phone?

[~InHisHands~]

I don't really go by age but by maturity but my initial thoughts are...
TV? almost any age though NO SATELLITE/CABLE
Computer? almost any age WITHOUT INTERNET, NEVER (until they are adults) with Internet - we have a computer connected to the internet in the kitchen so that I can always see what is going on on the internet
Phone? when he/she can pay for it but we'll discuss this again at about 16 (driving age)

[somo_chickenlady]

TV - I'm not sure on this one. Greyson is 10 and we are just now thinking of letting him have a tv in his room. Any sign of misuse and it is gone, though.

Computer - He'll get a computer to use provided by the high school he will go to, provided we don't move before then. If he doesn't end up going to that school or they change their policies, then I think high school would be ok for a personal computer.

Phone - When he is 16 or whenever he drives on his own. Before then I don't think it is necessary. Of course our nieces and nephews think we're crazy and the meanest parents ever, but why on earth does a 10 year old need a cell phone?? Our 10 year old niece got a cell phone for Christmas this last year and you can't get her away from it. I think it is ridiculous.

[Vicki...]

Tv-probably when he is 4-5
Computer-without internet and with supervision, probably around 7, they use them here at school now, so I would like to teach him some things on it
Phone-Probably around 15 or 16, but it's something he will have to earn through good behavior and good grades, and of course helping around the house.

[MountainMomma]

TV- I just put one in the kids room recently. Sierra is going to be 11 very soon, and Will is 7 1/2.

Computer. They have access to the family computer when they need it, but they won't be getting their own unless their father buys it for them which isn't likely.

Phone - I used to say when they are old enough to pay for it, but with my new plan I get unlimited long distance and all that happy crap so I am seriously considering looking into a second line just so I can use it. Sierra is on the phone all the time!

[stefler]

TV - no tv in the bedrooms, period ... there are 2 family tv's, enough so everyone can be happy.
Computer - there is a family computer in the den that can be monitored. My laptop is off limits!
Phone - Perhaps when Lauren's an older teen she can have a phone, I don't see the need before then.

[JCT2005]

Probably not until he's a teenager and I would most likely tell Teddy to save up the money and buy those things for himself. I don't see the need for a child to have any of these things for himself. My parents never bought me my own TV, computer, or phone and I survived.