A family that texts together...

Are cell phones bringing families closer together? Seems that way.

According to a survey published by Pew Internet & American Life Project last week, internet and cell phones have become major components of modern family life. Most surprisingly, married households with children are more likely to have cell phones and go online than single adults, homes with unrelated adults, or couples without children.

Tracy Kennedy, author of a new report about the survey called "Networked Families," says that analysts were worried at first that these technologies would hurt family togetherness. But instead, they're allowing for new kinds of connections.

"Family members touch base with each other frequently with their cell phones, and they use those phones to coordinate family life on the fly during their busy lives," says Kennedy, who was quoted in the Pew report.

Makes total sense to me. I've definitely been more prone to text, particularly when I don't have time for a real chat. If only my mother wanted to learn how to use it, that would be great. I'd quickly be able to let her know that I'm running late for my visit without having to sit through another dramatic episode of "When are you going to give me grandchildren?" and other nags.

For teens, texting's a godsend. Yeah, so maybe they message pals when they're not suppose to, like during math class. But they can also stay in touch with parents?and avoid getting grounded'through the briefest of communiqués and without cramping their lifestyles.

In fact, Samsung Mobile's study last April says that not only does the act of text messaging improve parent-teen relationships, but also that kids teaching their parents how to text is actually becoming a bonding activity.

If you're a parent, you may want to rethink turning down your child's cell phone request. And if you're a kid without a cell, print this out and hand it to your folks. (And don't forget to let us know how much you love your new phone.)