On any typical day my kids (after chores and homework) scatter to the four winds in search of fun.
In an effort to keep in contact with them while they are out playing, we have purchased hand held "walkie-talkie" radios that have a 2 mile range. We have 4 of these radios, one stays home at all times, and each child takes one with him.
No more searching the neighborhood at dinnertime.
No more calling the boys out the back door.
With a press of a button and a few spoken (not yelled) words, the boys are on their way home.
I LOVE technology.