Cell Phones: What’s the Appropriate Age For a Kid to Have One?

I went to pick up my 6th grader from school and noticed several kids walking off campus, talking on cell phones. I suppose it’s a sign of the times.

With cell phone restrictions for drivers, and stories about adults being ticketed by police for talking and texting while they walk down the street, I have to wonder whether middle school-age kids students responsible and attentive enough to have cell phones. Let me know your thoughts. I (and my kid) are very interested in knowing what you think.

What is the appropriate age for a kid to have a cell phone?