Forbidding your child from having a mobile phone isn't really an option any more. However, parents should be sure to monitor the costs involved. Mobile phone use can be restricted by means of prepaid cards or a payment plan with a fixed upper spending limit. We advise against unlimited monthly plans because the running costs remain unknown for a long time – which can lead to unpleasant and costly surprises.

It's also worth comparing the various network operators and providers and estimating realistically how much the phone will be used. The different rates for peak times, off-peak times and weekends should also be scrutinized closely. Mobile phones with special tariffs allow users to make off-peak calls at considerably lower rates.

Avoid gimmicks

Find out exactly what technical features the mobile phone offers. You can save money, for example, by choosing a mobile phone without MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service). Special ring tones, logos, SMS voting and 0800 numbers are very expensive. Parents should explain this to their children and advise them against using these options. Caution is also advised when buying a new mobile phone. Old models don't always have to be replaced by the latest cutting-edge technology.

Parental control

Many parents are willing to pay a fixed amount each month for a mobile phone. Mobile phones are useful in emergencies or if children need to let their parents know they'll be home late. Any additional calls must then be paid for out of pocket money, or the less expensive landline phone can be used.