As the use of mobile phones grows around the world, it was inevitable that as the more mature adult markets began to slow, the mobile phone manufacturers would move down to the younger users.  They have been targeted in many ways such as younger designs, bright colours, an emphasis on safety and knowing where your children are.

These are some of the factors which have caused a major boom in the 8 year old to 16 year old market.  In many cases this has resulted in major problems at school with many phones being used for unsavoury purposes.

There has been a massive increase in the number of so called “happy slapping” incidents in the UK, where innocent parties are attacked and filmed on mobile phones for the “enjoyment” of the perpetrators.  The effect of the so called “happy slapping” incidents has been so severe that police in the UK have been working with schools to reduce mobile phone abuse, as well as theft and bullying in schools.  With the help of the police and school authorities a handbook has been circulated to the major education authorities of the UK with advice and tips about reducing bullying.

In this day of ever younger mobile phone users, it has become apparent that mobile phones are very often the source of much jealousy in the play ground as well as used to film unsavoury incidents.  A number of perpetrators have actually been caught using evidence from mobile phones, and in particular the videos which are very quickly circulated when incidents such as “happy slapping” occur.  Teachers and school observers have been instructed to target misuse of mobiles which has actually resulted in a drop in school bullying and attacks. 

This is just another example of how the mobile phone has become a status symbol for some, and an object of jealousy for others.  In the fickle mind of the younger school children these devices are a major part of their lives, and essential to their image - both at school and home. 

No doubt this Christmas many children will be waking up to new mobile phones, with the best facilities and services.  Prior to letting your child use the phone it is ever more essential that they are shown a few ground rules about how to use, and also how to act with their new mobile phone.  While the instances of misuse have been out of control over the last few years, mobile phones do play a very important part in keeping your family safe and in constant contact.  The tricky bit is finding a balance between use and abuse of their mobile.