re: What age should a child be handed a cell phone?

I don't see the big deal with people buying their kids a cell phone at a certain age. When it gets to the point where they will not always be with their parents and they are responsible enough to have one, then I don't see the problem. Does this mean they should have a smartphone? No. I think that's when the question of "at what age" comes in, but there are benefits in them having a cell phone.

If something ever happens they at least have away to get in contact with parents.

God forbid someone kidnaps them, but the phone can be used to track them, etc.