Age and maturity.
According to Common Sense Media, “the right age to give kids their first cell phone is really up to you. Age isn't as important as your kid's maturity level, ability to follow home (and schools') rules, their sense of responsibility, and your own family's needs.” Some children receive their first phone in elementary school. Where this may work for some families, others may prefer to wait until their children are in junior high.
It can be difficult explaining to your child that you don’t want them to have their own cell phone because you feel they aren’t ready. Fortunately, there are other gadgets that you can give them until you feel they are responsible enough to handle their first phone.
Advice for early phone usage.
There are 4 questions to ask yourself before buying a smartphone for your child:
Are they regularly losing things?
Are they responsible?
Do you trust them?
Are they mature enough?
If you’ve asked yourself these questions and feel like your child is worthy of owning a smartphone, yet you’re still nervous, don’t worry just yet. There are plenty of tips to consider to help ease your mind.
Find a balance between you and your teen concerning trust and safety;
Set up rules and expectations that both you and your child can agree upon;
Educate them about the drawbacks of kids having a phone;
Teach them about cyberbullying (including how to avoid it and how not to become a cyberbully);
Don’t be afraid to take the phone away from them as punishment or to teach them the importance of responsibility;
Practice what you preach by putting your phone down during times when using your cell phone may be seen as inappropriate;
Look into kids wireless plans;
Customize parental settings with child safety locks;
Teach them how to practice internet safety.
It can be a stressful time watching your child grow up, but don’t let the question of when to give your kid a phone be the ultimate stressor. By being aware of the pros and cons, suggested age, psychological development, and tips you’ve been provided, you can securely decide whether or not your child is ready for a smartphone of their own.
