This seems like a nice cell phone solution for parents.

The plan is just $19.99 per month, and features unlimited calls between parent and child. The child also has unlimited in-network calling (meaning they’re really good to go if their friends use T-Mobile) and unlimited weekend minutes. Otherwise they have 50 minutes to use whenever. A couple of other notes from their FAQ:

Q. Can my kids text message with this plan?
A. Yes. The kids can trade all or any portion of their 50 Whenever Minutes allotment (plus any additional refill Whenever Minutes that may have been purchased) for text or picture messages – so they can choose how to stay in touch with their friends and you, without running up extra charges. Kids can send 4 text messages (to anyone nationwide) for each Whenever Minute they trade in – and can always receive text messages for no additional charge.

Q. Does this come with a ‘kiddie phone?’
A. Let’s face it – kids don’t want kid phones – they want cool phones. This plan works with any phone you choose to purchase – so you can decide together on a phone you both like for them.

Seems like a better kid solution than pre-paid.