Kids are using more and more electronic devices this school year

(ARA) - Kids are using more electronic devices throughout the school year than ever before. They're on cell phones to connect with friends and family, handheld computers for homework, downloading music videos and searching the net and carrying MP3 players for jamming to music.

But because students are always on the go during the busy, hectic school year, there's always the possibility that these electronic devices don't get fully charged at night with a tangle of cords stretching from outlets all around your house.

In fact, two-thirds of parents report that their children use a dead cell phone battery as an excuse for not communicating with them, according to an Ipsos poll conducted in July on behalf of Duracell.

You can remove that excuse and set an example for your children by keeping your own cellphones, BlackBerrys, iPods and other electronic communications devices fully charged - without the cords or multiple outlets. The Duracell myGrid Charging Pad is a high-tech and hassle-free charging station that eliminates the mess of chords and charges up to four electric devices at once. You just equip your cell with the compatible Power Sleeve or Clip and drop it on the Grid to let it charge.

Busy school schedules can also have your family scrambling one or two nights a week, preventing everyone from taking the time to charge their electronic devices at home. Send your teen to school with a reserve power source from Duracell in her purse or backpack. The Instant Charger and the Powerhouse Charger both work with BlackBerrys, iPods and most cell phones, and can provide up to 35 hours or 60 hours of extra power respectively.

With so many families mobile and on the go during the school year, keeping schedules organized is less of a hassle if everyone has good electronic communication equipment. Cell phones can also keep your family safer, and 90 percent of the survey respondents reported that's the reason they gave their children cell phones. They're great for helping all family members check in so you know where they are - especially before and after school.

If you do give you child a cell phone, make sure you discuss the school rules with her. Some districts don't allow cell phones to be on in the school building, while others just don't allow them in the classroom. Teach your child about taking responsibility for his or her phone, following the school rules, keeping it charged and using it appropriately. Visit Duracell.com for more information.

Courtesy of ARAcontent