Are you wondering if your kid's age is appropriate to get him a cell phone? Experts believe age isn't as important as responsibility and maturity. If your kid can demonstrate both -- by checking in with you at appointed times, following your rules, adhering to school guidelines, and handling the phone sensibly -- then he or she may be ready.

If you decide your child is ready for a cell phone, follow these tips to coach your child on how to use it.

Buy a basic phone: You can still get a phone that doesn't include a camera, Internet access, and games. If you're passing one of your phones down to your child, turn off all the extra features. And if your child complains, remind her that phones are tools, not toys.

Teach Responsibility: Discuss with your child how many minutes per month is reasonable and stick to the limit. It's recommended that your child's first cell phone have a prepaid plan. You also can block Internet access on most phones, as well as calls from unapproved numbers.

Set a time guideline: Have your child turn off the phone at bedtime or take it away each night until morning. It also helps to set no-call times during the day, such as when the child is doing her homework or eating dinner with family. If you are not comfortable with taking the cell phone, let your child know that you will be checking the bill for the time stamp on each call.

Follow the same limits yourself: If you don't want your child to use the phone during meals or while driving, follow those rules yourself. If you don't want them to compulsively check their phone, don't do so yourself.

Teach children good behavior by practicing the following:

• Ask permission before you snap someone's picture, take a video, or forward something.
• Not sending inappropriate photos or texts
• Avoid using location services
• Never communicating with strangers, no matter how they present themselves.