Cell phones can give parents peace of mind, providing them with the ability to stay in touch with their kids all day long to know they are safe. Yet research shows that cell phones can harm children, who are vulnerable to the devices’ radiation.

That’s why Port Washington-based Grassroots Environmental Education, an environmental health nonprofit organization, is urging parents to limit their children’s cell phone usage.

"With a new school year upon us, the list of back-to-school supplies may include a new cell phone, typically one that has more power and can perform more functions," said Patti Wood, executive director of Grassroots, in a statement.

"But emerging studies from all over the world are telling us to be extremely cautious about these wireless devices, especially where children are concerned," Wood also stated. "Parents should set rules for their kids about cell phones, and schools should adopt similar protective guidelines."

Grassroots offers five rules for cell phone use.

1. Never hold a cell phone directly against your head.

2. Use the speaker setting or a corded headset whenever possible.

3. Switch side (ears) frequently if you have to hold it near your head.

4. Do not carry cell phones in pockets or anywhere else on your body.

5. Use cell phones only for emergencies or quick check-ins.

According to Grassroots, wireless devices, transmitters and cell phone towers emit non-ionizing "radio frequency" or "microwave radiation." The organization claims that an increasing number of studies indicate that prolonged exposure to this kind of radiation can damage DNA, triggering health problems, especially in vulnerable populations, such as children.

What’s more, the organization points out that radiation is transmitted by the cell phone antenna, which is typically found in the case of newer models. Most manufacturers recommend not holding the device next to the head, and instead keeping phones about one inch away from the head.

"The allowable limit for adult exposure to RF radiation in the United States is much higher than it is in many other countries and protects us only against heating," said Dr. Magda Havas, Associate Professor of Environmental & Resource Studies at Trent University in Canada, in the Grassroots press release. "Children are more sensitive than adults to all kinds of environmental exposures yet we use the same high exposure standard for children.  This doesn't make any sense."