I got my own cell phone at 18, when I was able to pay for it. During high school, I was able to borrow my parents on weekends. I find that this is about the only area my wife and I differ on when it comes to kids. She feels they should have one much sooner. I say MAYBE when they're 16 and can drive. If they do get a phone prior to them paying for it, it will be the MOST basic phone possible and they'll hand it over when they walk in the house. None of this "I stare at my phone during meals/conversations at home" crap.