(KPLR)—
U.S. Cellular offers a few tips for parents and their increasingly wireless teens:Engage your Teen in the Purchase Decision - Review how your teen will use their cell phone. For example, do they actually text more than they talk? Are they photo obsessed or focused on ringtones? Negotiating the number of texts sent per month and finding the best texting plan – such as one with free incoming, or unlimited text messages – will help parents reasonably estimate cell phone expenses, avoid accidental overages and help young cell phone users feel more a part of the process.
Consider Prepaid Plans - Prepaid plans are simple: you open an account and pay for airtime up front. When you run out of minutes, you can pay for more or let your plan expire. The benefits of prepaid wireless are obvious: no monthly bill, easier-to-control costs, no credit checks and no long-term commitment. Not only can you and your child manage their wireless expenses wisely, but the service can also be a great way for teens new to wireless to get their feet wet.
Be Realistic about your Teen's Use - As amazing as it sounds, the average teen user is sending and receiving more that 1,700 text messages a month. For the heaviest texters, an unlimited prepaid wireless plan may be a viable option.
To learn more about the company, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com.
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