Staying Connected With Teens (NAPSA)—Thelatest rite of passage for many of today’s teens has less to do with getting a driver’s license or a later curfew than it does with talking to parents and taking on more responsibility. The new “rite” involves teens getting their own cell phones— and for many parents, it represents a great way to stay in touch with on-the-go teens, while grant- ing them little added freedom. However, for teens, cell phones are often about more than just making calls and learning about managing phone plans. They’re also a way to communicate their personal style and express their independence. So what’s the best way to help teens express themselves, while still keeping somecontrol over the cell phone bills they accumulate? One idea is to use a prepaid calling plan. For instance, Cingular Wireless offers a “grab and go,” prepaid wireless option that makes it relatively easy and affordable for parents and teensto stay connected. GoPhone, the company’s prepaid solution, consists of two unique service offerings: “Pay as You Go” and “Pick Your Plan.” Both plans offer the benefits of traditional wireless service, such as unlimited mobile to mobile calling to all 51 million Cingular sub- scribers, but without a contract or credit check. Perhaps more impor- tant to parents, however, both plans let users receive notifica- tions of their account balance immediately after each call is ended. With “Pay as You Go,” teens can choose from two plan options: 10 cents a minute plus $1 access charge each day the phone \ A} Q For many parents, cell phones have become a way to teach teens responsibility. is used or a flat rate of 25 cents a minute. Replenishment of minutes on the plan can be done by pur- chasing GoPhone prepaid cards. With “Pick Your Plan,” teens and parents can choose from one of four plans ranging in price from $29.99 to $69.99, and when min- utes are low, users can add funds via a credit card, debit card or checking account at any time. This helps avoid costly overage charges. Teens who want “cool” phones can choose from any mobile phone provisioned for the company’s network—the Motorola RAZR Black, for example. Or they can choose from one of the three prepackaged handsets that come equipped with an activation card and are ready to use out of the box. If they’re looking for fun features, the plan gives them access to voice mail, text and instant messaging, MEdia Net, competitive interna- tional calling rates, downloadable ringtones, graphics and games, and no long distance or roaming charges. For more information, visit www.cingular.com/gophone.
