We know the dangers of using cell phones while driving. I want to suggest another less physically dangerous issue.

Too often I see families with very young children where the mother and/or father is on the phone ignoring the child. What are these children to think about their value to that family? How can you develop that important closeness to your children if they are always taking second place to the phone? How can they develop language skills when conversation is non-existent?

When you are at the bus stop, consider questions about their school work. When you are out for lunch, play word games or make up stories to keep them occupied. There is so much for young children to share with you. Soon enough, they will have their own phones, and you will wonder why they keep the phone glued to their ears and never talk to you.

Barbara Renzi

Cary