Rather than setting a specific age, experts suggest reflecting on your child’s behavior. First, consider whether you can trust them to look after expensive items. If they’re prone to breaking, forgetting, or losing things, it’s wise to wait to give them a pricey electronic device. Next, think about how they respond to restrictions and discipline. To protect your children from unsavory aspects of the internet and social media, you should monitor their phone usage, at least while they’re younger. Is your child likely to respond well to these parameters, or do they have a history of pushing back on structure? If they have a habit of evading rules, a smartphone is a risky proposition. Finally, consider their impulse control. Does your child pay attention in class and get their homework done on time, or are they easily distracted? Evaluate whether or not you think your kid could resist using their phone during school or family time. It’s also important to note the difference between smartphones and other cellphones. Though cellphones that lack internet access are increasingly uncommon, they still exist and are sometimes referred to in jest as “dumbphones.” If you think your child should have access to a phone for safety or to contact their friends, but don’t want them on social media, this is an option worth considering. Whenever you decide your child is ready, have a meaningful conversation with them about your expectations, responsible use, and the danger of online scams and predators. It’s important to give your kid the knowledge they need to use their phone wisely and safely. So, Your Kid Wants a Cellphone HOW CAN YOU TELL THEY’RE READY?
If your child is like most young kids, they’ll probably start begging for a smartphone before they’re old enough to have one. The older they get, the more intense the pressure will be to have one, especially as their friends get their own devices. So, when is it time for your kid to have their first phone? According to Common Sense Media, 53% of kids have a smartphone by the age of 11, and Consumer Reports says that 6 out of 10 parents provide their children with a cellphone when their kids are between the ages of 8 and 12. But there is a wide range of opinions — even tech pioneer Bill Gates didn’t allow his children to have a phone until they were 14.
overlapping) so they soak up the juices. Flip the tortillas and repeat. Then, add chicken and grated cheddar to each tortilla and fold it over the filling — in the pan. 4. Cook the tacos for 3 minutes per side until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted. 5. Top with pico and guacamole salsa, and serve! • Canola oil (for frying) • Corn tortillas • Grated cheddar cheese • Pico de gallo and guacamole salsa (to taste) One-Pan Chicken Tacos Inspired by TasteOfHome.com
TAKE A BREAK!
INGREDIENTS
• 1 lb chicken breasts, sliced into 1-inch pieces • 2 tbsp garlic powder • 2 tbsp cumin • 2 tbsp chipotle powder
DIRECTIONS
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces, garlic powder, cumin, and chipotle powder. Mix until the chicken is coated. 2. In a frying pan, heat the oil. When the oil is hot, add the chicken mixture. Cook on medium heat for 5–8 minutes. 3. Remove the chicken from the pan, and add the corn tortillas (avoid
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